Bank Independent has held an annual Toy Share Drive for 14 years running. This year, they collected a record 5,039 toys. Additionally, close to $3,000 in cash was donated.

The bank partners with local organizations to ensure that the toys reach children from low-income families in time for the holidays.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed toys, time, and resources to bring joy to children in need this holiday season,” said Macke Mauldin, President and CEO of Bank Independent, Inc. “The success of this year’s Toy Share Drive was made possible by the amazing generosity of our community. Your kindness inspires us all and exemplifies the positive difference we can achieve together as we head into 2025.”

Since its inception in 2011, Toy Share has collected over 47,000 items and more than $50,000 in cash to distribute to local families who could benefit from assistance at this time of year.

The total economic impact of Toy Share has surpassed the $1 million mark.

“The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and giving back, and this year we’re thrilled to have broken the record for the number of toys collected through our annual Toy Share drive,” said Hallie Mauldin, Community Engagement Officer for Bank Independent. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated and to the charitable organizations that work alongside us to distribute these toys, bringing holiday cheer to children in need throughout our communities.”

Team members from all 33 Bank Independent locations contributed to the success of this year’s drive.

Charitable organizations distributing Toy Share donations include:

DHR of Franklin County
DHR of Lawrence County
Cornerstone Church of Moulton
Angel Tree Program with Lexington High School
DHR of Limestone County
Christmas Charities Year-Round of Madison County
Committee on Church Cooperation of Morgan County
William Porter Foundation in the Shoals
Shoals CASA, Safeplace of the Shoals
North Alabama Christian Children’s Home
Rogersville Volunteer Fire Department

Bank Independent’s Helping Hands Foundation holds four Share drives per year — Shelter Share, Food Share, School Share, and Toy Share — to uplift the local community.