Community donations power 110th Christmas toy giveaway at the Dr. Piper Center in Fort Myers

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

Laughter, cheers and the sounds of celebration filled the air early Christmas morning at the Dr. Piper Center in Fort Myers, where hundreds of families gathered for the center’s 110th annual Christmas Day celebration.

Some people arrived as early as 4:30 a.m., with families traveling from across Southwest Florida and even as far as Miami to take part in the long-running holiday tradition.

“This is my first time here,” said Orlando Cuesta, who traveled from Miami to attend the event.

The celebration, which has served generations of families, focuses on providing free toys, bikes and gifts to children, helping families who may otherwise struggle to afford holiday presents.

“I told them there’s kids out there — they can’t afford toys,” said Vanessa Beltran of Naples.

For many attendees, the Dr. Piper Center celebration is more than a one-time visit — it’s a family tradition passed down through generations.

“It means a lot,” said Christine Baskin of Fort Myers. “I brought my great-grandbaby up here. This is my first time because I feel like this is done by heritage, and every kid should experience this.”

The event’s success relies heavily on community support.

“It’s huge for us,” said Irvine Bourdeau, development director for the Dr. Piper Center. “We’re super excited, and we’re so grateful for the community. All these toys and all the bikes were donated.”

Among the hundreds of children receiving gifts was 12-year-old David Remy from Cape Coral, who initially worried there wouldn’t be enough toys for everyone.

“I didn’t think I would get anything,” David said. “But they give you really, really good stuff. They really do support people in life, everybody is amazing.”

Organizers say their goal this year was to provide toys to at least 500 children up to age 17, and they hope to serve even more families next year.

As hugs were shared and children left clutching new gifts, the message of the morning was clear: When a community comes together, no child is left behind.

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