Rockford’s Biggest Toy Drive: How You Can Help Kids This Christmas

Do you need a little help getting into the holiday spirit this year? Visiting Rockford's largest toy drive on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall should do the trick!

Helping Rockford-Area Families In Need

2025 has been a rough year for many people for many reasons. Sadly, I believe the number of Rockford-area families needing help this Christmas will be larger than ever.

Too many people in this community are having to figure out how to feed their families right now, and buying Christmas gifts for their children is one thing they shouldn't have to worry about.

That's where you and I need to step in.

Christmas Assistance from the Salvation Army

The Salvation Army's famous Red Kettles are already set up as stores and businesses all over the Rockford area, but on Friday, December 5, we have the chance to provide  Christmas joy for children that will likely go without it this holiday season.

I have been a part of Q98.5’s “12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive” at the Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall for at least 20 years now, and I still get choked up by the amount of generosity and kindness that exists in this community every year.

For twelve hours we all come together to ensure every local child experiences the magic of Christmas, and for me, that is one of the best parts of the season.

The '12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive' at Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall

This year’s toy drive marks the 28th year of supporting local families through , and what we need from you is to come out and donate.

Every single donation, both toys and money, stays right here in Rockford and Winnebago county.  Your donations are more than just presents, they are reminders of hope, kindness, and love for children aged infant to 15 years old.

Here's how you can be a part of the magic!

Join us on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall by the CherryVale Mall.  Bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate, drop some money in the Red Kettle, or click this link to make a monetary donation online.

If you can't make it to the Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall in person on December 5, no problem! You can order toys online and have them shipped directly to Lou Bachrodt:

• Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall
• Attn: Tracy Beyer
• 7070 Cherryvale N. Blvd
• Rockford, IL 61112

Please help us provide Christmas for deserving children in need. We can't wait to see you all at the Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall on December 5. Santa is looking forward to seeing you too!