Our Story

Born from a simple belief: every child deserves access to quality educational toys, regardless of family income.

The Camrose Community Toy Library mission

Our Mission

The Camrose Community Toy Library exists to ensure all children under 5 in Northampton have equal opportunities to learn, develop, and thrive through play. We believe early childhood experiences shape lifelong outcomes, and financial constraints should never limit a child's potential.

As a registered charity (No. 291600), we're committed to sustainability, community building, and educational excellence—one toy at a time.

Building Community Through Play

How a simple idea transformed into Northampton's most beloved family resource

Families gathering at Camrose Toy Library community event

It Started With Parents

In 2018, a group of Northampton parents noticed something heartbreaking: children in our community were missing developmental opportunities because quality toys were simply unaffordable. Birthday parties revealed stark disparities—some children received mountains of plastic toys they'd outgrow in weeks, while others had almost nothing.

We asked: "What if we shared our resources?" That question sparked a movement. Parents began donating gently-used toys, volunteering time, and spreading the word. The Camrose Centre offered space, and our toy library was born.

Volunteers organizing educational toys for children

Growing Stronger Together

Today, we're more than a toy library—we're a community hub where families connect, children make friends, and parents find support. Our volunteers (many former users themselves) ensure every toy meets safety standards and supports developmental milestones.

We've served over 500 families, saved an estimated 15,000 toys from landfills, and helped countless children develop the skills they need for school success. But our proudest achievement? Seeing children from all backgrounds play together, learn together, and grow together.

Our Core Values

Accessibility

Zero financial barriers. Every family deserves quality educational resources.

Sustainability

Reduce waste, reuse toys, recycle joy. Caring for our planet and community.

Development

Every toy selected to support early learning and school readiness.

Our Impact in Numbers

500+

Families Served

200+

Toys Available

15K+

Toys Saved from Landfill

6

Years of Service

Join Our Community Today

Registered Charity No. 291600 | Based at The Camrose Centre, Northampton