The Today Show's "Holiday Toy and Gift Drive" works with charities and businesses to make sure kids have gifts to open on Christmas

Now in its 18th year, the Holiday Toy and Gift Drive has raised $285 million in donations since its inception in 1994. The Today Show's Charitable Foundation works with charities and businesses to collect and provide gifts for needy children. This year, they were able to raise nearly $35 million in donations and provide gifts to 200 charities resulting in 4 million children being helped. For more information about the drive, click here to visit the drive's webpage. 

Holiday drives are always good ways to carry out the giving spirit. Many children were provided for this season thanks to the drive and the amazing charities and generous businesses that participated and people that donated. Although I would hope that so many families weren't in need, I'm sure that the 2012 Holiday Toy and Gift Drive will provide more opportunities to give.