The East Coast Car Association rolled into Bayside on Sunday, Nov. 17, for its 26th annual Toy Run, bringing a fleet of over 100 cars and motorcycles loaded with toys to St. Mary’s Hospital for Children.
The event, which began at Forest Park and concluded at the Bayside facility, spread holiday cheer to children with complex medical needs while delivering a significant monetary donation to support specialized programs and services.
“We are incredibly grateful to the East Coast Car Association for their continued generosity in spearheading this heartwarming event year after year for our patients,” said Dr. Edwin Simpser, President and CEO of St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children. “Every toy, donation, and act of kindness makes a meaningful difference, bringing joy and hope to New York’s most medically fragile children.”
The Toy Run has become a cherished tradition since its inception in 1999, raising more than $200,000 for the hospital over the past 25 years. The event is vital for St. Mary’s, the only facility in the region dedicated to providing pediatric long-term and rehabilitative care.
Children and families gathered at the hospital to greet the caravan, which included classic cars, motorcycles, and Santa himself. Volunteers handed out toys to brighten the holiday season for patients.
St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children has served New York’s most vulnerable children for more than 150 years. Its continuum of care includes an inpatient hospital in Bayside, home care services, and community programs tailored to children with complex medical needs.
For more information about St. Mary’s or to learn how to support its mission, visit stmaryskids.org.
