School continues longstanding toy drive tradition

Texas A&M School of Dentistry again joined the annual toy drive benefiting Community Partners of Dallas, fulfilling holiday wishes for more than 80 children in the foster care system.

The longstanding tradition has become a favorite of faculty, staff and students, all of whom treasure the opportunity to make the season brighter for children in need.

Dr. Gayle Glenn, clinical associate professor and graduate orthodontic clinic director, has participated in the toy drive for many years and said it’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together to benefit local children.

“My favorite part of participating in the toy drive is reviewing all the wish cards that are posted,” she said. “I enjoy selecting the cards and shopping for the specific items requested. The annual toy drive gets me into the holiday spirit of giving.”

Missy Stebbins, financial analyst at the school, said her own childhood experiences have inspired her to participate in the toy drive year after year.

“I grew up very poor, and there were many Christmases when there was nothing beneath our tree except donations from the Jaycees or other charitable organizations,” she said. “I know the sadness of not receiving anything for Christmas and the shame a child feels when they are asked what they got for Christmas, and they have to admit that they didn’t receive anything.

“These kids have been through enough already,” she said. “If I can prevent some of these kids from experiencing that sadness and shame, it’s my duty, my privilege and my joy to do so.”

Stebbins takes her grandson shopping to help pick out the gifts, and she loves searching for just the right thing for each child.

“Picturing the smile on the child’s face when they open their gift … imagining their first ride on their scooter, their head bopping while they are listening to their new headphones or a little girl’s first tea party with her new baby doll … there’s no better feeling in the world,” she said. “And the fact that I get to share that feeling with my grandson every year just makes it that much more special.”