Actor Tyler Perry has donated $50,000 to Stockton’s Toys for Joy event this weekend, Vice Mayor Jason Lee said.
The Hollywood Cares foundation, started by Lee, and the streaming service Zeus Network will host the annual giveaway at Aspire Stockton Secondary Academy in south Stockton.
The annual holiday toy giveaway and community celebration aims to bring toys, joy and holiday cheer to Stockton children and families, according to the press release.
Aspire Stockton Secondary Academy was the school of 8-year-old Maya Lupian, who died during a mass shooting in Stockton over the Thanksgiving weekend. The school has been the annual event site over the years, according to spokesperson Pristina Alford.
During the celebration, appearances are expected by actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish, who will be returning as Mrs. Claus, recording artist Joyner Lucas, California State Treasurer Fiona Ma and Lee.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Tyler Perry for his incredible … contribution,” Lee wrote in a press release. “This is what it looks like when people with platforms and resources step up for our children and invest directly in their happiness and future.”
The event, for children ages 10 and under, will last from noon to 4:00 p.m. Event sponsors say the celebration focuses on ensuring every child experiences the magic of the holidays through community, compassion and service.
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