Two Kenosha Teens Launch Holiday Toy Drive to Bring Smiles to Kids in Need

Two Kenosha teenagers are proving that the spirit of giving has no age limit.

Thirteen-year-old Jaxson Thomas, alongside his friend Jayden Eisenbraun, has kicked off an ambitious Kenosha teens launch toy drive for kids in need, aiming to collect gifts and spread holiday cheer throughout the community.

This heartfelt initiative asks residents for new, unwrapped toys, as well as cash and gift card donations.

The collection runs through December 5, with donations destined for local youth who might otherwise miss out on the magic of the season.

“I’m excited to do a toy drive because it helps kids, and I can see a big smile in their faces,” Thomas shared, expressing the simple yet powerful motivation behind the campaign.

This isn't the first time Thomas has stepped up for his community.

Living with ADHD and autism, Jaxson has channeled his unique perspective into profound empathy and action.

Just last year, his incredible efforts earned him the prestigious Volunteer of the Year title in the 2025 Governor’s Service Award.

That award recognized his donation of over 1,000 toys and books to more than 100 local families, a truly staggering achievement for a then 12-year-old.

Organizers of the award praised his powerful example, noting, “His heart, leadership and determination set a powerful example for all generations.”

Several local businesses have already rallied to support the cause, serving as official drop-off locations for the toy drive.

Donations can be made at Cut Stone Pizza and Sherwood Forest Meat Market in downtown Kenosha, Nothing Bundt Cakes in Pleasant Prairie, and Drifters Bar & Grill in Paddock Lake, among others.

The effort underscores a growing sense of community engagement as the holidays approach, with local businesses and residents eager to support one another.

What is the deadline for the toy drive?

All donations of new, unwrapped toys, cash, or gift cards must be dropped off by December 5.

Where can I donate?

Drop-off locations include Cut Stone Pizza, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Drifters Bar & Grill, Sherwood Forest Meat Market, Kenosha Senior Living, and The Vault at Historic 625.

Who is organizing the toy drive?

Kenosha teens Jaxson Thomas, a past recipient of the Governor's Service Award for volunteering, and his friend Jayden Eisenbraun are leading the community effort.