The holidays at Pebbles Toys & Gifts are all about joy, generosity, and community. Just one year after opening on Chapel Street, the beloved toy store has become a bright spot in the Elm City’s holiday season through its partnership with Yale New Haven Hospital’s Toy Closet Program.
For General Manager Lauren Coleman, giving back is woven into the store’s story. “Pebbles was founded as a mission-driven business,” she says. “Giving back to the community has been our number one goal from the beginning.” That mission found its match in the Toy Closet Program, which provides a new toy to every child receiving care at the hospital.
Each year, the program distributes hundreds of thousands of toys across Yale New Haven Health, bringing comfort and joy to children of all ages. Books, games, and art kits are among the most loved donations, small treasures that make a big difference.
This December, Pebbles is once again inviting shoppers to take part in the magic. Guests can purchase a toy in-store or online to donate or simply scan a QR code to contribute a dollar amount. The Pebbles team then hand-selects toys to deliver to the hospital on behalf of the community.
Last year’s response was overwhelming. “The store was buzzing with energy,” Coleman recalls. “Our customers were so generous. It was heartwarming to see how eager everyone was to give back.”
For Pebbles, this initiative is about more than holiday cheer. It is about nurturing the same spirit of kindness that defines New Haven. “Pebbles is a community-first store,” says Coleman. “We want to give back to the community because it gives so much to us.”
As visitors browse Pebbles’ playful displays this season, from plush animals to colorful craft kits, they are reminded that every gift has the power to brighten someone’s day. For Pebbles, that is what the holidays are all about: spreading joy one toy at a time.
