The community is once again coming together in the spirit of generosity as the second annual Michael John Haven’s Toy Drive returns on Saturday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. at The Beacon.
The event honors the late Michael John Haven, who for more than 15 years organized one of Marblehead’s most beloved holiday toy drives at Gerry Five.
After his passing in 2021, the tradition paused — until last year, when Beacon co-owner Johnny Ray encouraged Michael’s brother, Curt Havens, to relaunch the drive in his honor. The result was an outpouring of community support and the collection of more than 700 toys for children across the North Shore.
This year, Curt Havens hopes to meet or exceed that number.
The Dec. 13 gathering is expected to fill the Beacon’s dining room to capacity, with residents stopping in for dinner and dropping off toys to support children who otherwise may go without gifts this holiday season.
In addition to donating at the event, community members can drop off new, unwrapped toys at donation boxes positioned across Marblehead through Friday, Dec. 12. Organizers will be collecting the boxes that day. Toy drop-off locations include:
- Mud Puddle Toys
- Beacon Restaurant, Café & Theater
- Gerry Five
- Shubie’s
- Council on Aging
- The Mariner
- Marblehead Children’s Center
- The Landing
- Coldwell Banker
The drive accepts only unwrapped items so distribution teams can match each gift to the appropriate age group.
Those who are unable to shop in person can still contribute.
Shoppers at Mud Puddle Toys, located at the corner of Pleasant and Washington Streets, will also receive 20% off any toy purchased for the drive, making it even easier to participate.
On Sunday, Dec. 14, Tim Cronin of the Marblehead Fire Department will pick up all donated toys and deliver them to North Shore distribution centers, where volunteers will sort, wrap, and ensure each child receives a gift perfectly suited to their age. The Fire Department has long played a key role in getting these toys into the hands of families who need them most.
The Haven family and Beacon organizers emphasize that the drive supports underprivileged children across the North Shore, many living in circumstances far different from those in Marblehead. For them, a single gift can transform a holiday morning.
“This has always been an amazing community event,” Curt Havens shared. “My brother built something special, and we’re proud to continue this tradition in his name.”