About the Toys for Kids Foundation

Short answer

Toys for Kids Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity in Panama City Beach, Florida, founded by Chris Moates. For more than 25 years it has provided Christmas for Bay County children in need, funded by community events and toy donations, and working alongside established local agencies.

Our mission

The mission of the Toys for Kids Foundation is to provide assistance to established Bay County agencies and groups that share our vision of helping families with children in need. With the support of dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and events held throughout the year, the Toys for Kids Foundation serves those less fortunate in our community.

Our story

Our founder, Chris Moates, had a vision more than 25 years ago: bring together the best of our community to care for the most valuable asset we have, our kids. No child should be left out of the spirit of Christmas, or the joy that comes from giving and receiving gifts.

Toys fuel the imagination of our youth and help them build intelligence and creativity. Toys for Kids Foundation loves helping kids succeed, and that is why we work so hard for them. We know that through your generosity, we will meet the needs of the children in our communities.

We also believe giving to kids plants seeds that grow into greatness. It teaches children the basic values of honesty, kindness, generosity, courage, equality and respect. It helps them celebrate diversity in a spirit of understanding, develop a positive regard for others, and learn the responsibilities of being an active, caring member of a community, just as you and I are caring for it today.

How it works

• We raise funds at three events each year: the Golf Classic, the Halloween Bash and the Christmas Ball.
• We collect toys at dozens of drop-off locations across Bay County every December, and at the Christmas Ball, where admission is a toy.
• We go shopping. The money raised funds a December shopping spree for children in need.
• We reach families directly. Bay County families sign up for Christmas assistance, and we coordinate with other local groups so help reaches as many children as possible.

Leadership

• Christopher (Chris) MoatesFounder & President
• Gary CostabileDirector
• Paul WuntsellDirector
• Ashley PeitroDirector

Nonprofit information

• Legal nameHouseboys of Florida Toys for Kids Foundation, Inc.
• Status501(c)(3) public charity, tax-exempt since 2000
• EIN31-1673477
• ServingPanama City Beach, Panama City, Lynn Haven, Callaway, Parker, Springfield, Mexico Beach, Southport, Youngstown and Tyndall Air Force Base

Our IRS filings are public: see our Form 990 on ProPublica (opens in a new tab).