YOUR TOWN

Operation Changing Lives 15th annual toy drive now underway

The Operation Changing Lives Toy Drive helps low-income families in the area who struggle to give Christmas gifts to their children.

By Amanda Smith, Benedict Advertising
| 2:00 p.m. November 17, 2023

Ormond Beach Observer
Your Town

For 15 years, Operation Changing Lives has been helping give Volusia and Flagler County children something to smile about during the holidays, thanks to its annual toy drive.

The Operation Changing Lives Toy Drive helps low-income families in the area who struggle to give Christmas gifts to their children. Started by doctors at Florida Oral & Facial Surgical Associates, they partner with several schools across Volusia and Flagler Counties to identify children needing holiday happiness.

Donations can be dropped off at Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and Palm Coast Florida Oral & Facial Surgical Associates’ offices.

Daytona Beach Office, 549 Health Blvd., Daytona Beach
New Smyrna Beach Office, 429 N. Causeway, New Smyrna Beach
Palm Coast Office, 21 Hospital Drive, Suite 180, Palm Coast

Toy donations will also be collected at Cherise’s Salon in Daytona Beach Shores until the drive ends on Dec. 9.

“No child should be left out of the holiday fun, and it’s our mission to make sure all kids in our community have a very happy holiday season,” Dr. Curtis Schalit said.

Last year, Operation Changing Lives provided toys for more than 500 children in the area and hopes to increase that number this year.

Operation Changing Lives will also host its annual 5K Run/Walk in Ponce Inlet on Jan. 6, 2024, and its Golf Tournament at the New Smyrna Beach Golf Course on April 27, 2024.