Members of the toy and play community in the U.S. and beyond have been mobilized to provide aid and support following the terrorist attacks on Israel that sparked the beginning of the Israel-Hamas War on October 7, 2023.
The Toy Foundation (TTF) was quick to act, sending out a call to the industry soliciting product and monetary donations in an effort to provide aid and comfort to the kids and families that have been injured and displaced throughout Israel. TTF plans to work with international nonprofit partners that will establish on-the-ground teams to accept and distribute toys, games, and essential household items.
For many in the toy industry — a business with a long history of Jewish founders, innovators, and champions — the Israel-Hamas War is a conflict that hits home as a tragic state of affairs with very personal ties.
In the days following the initial attacks, several companies issued statements backing the people of Israel while others were swift to begin sending aid.
Based in Tel Aviv, PMI Kids’ World, the growing company behind Piñata Smashlings, Pudgy Penguins, released a statement via LinkedIn:
“At PMI, we’ve always been committed to focusing on our business and the positive impact we can make in our industry. Today, however, we must address recent events.
The recent acts of terrorism and inhumanity are deeply distressing, and our thoughts are with all those affected by these tragic events. While we typically refrain from discussing politics on LinkedIn, it is impossible to remain silent in the face of such violence and horror.
We stand firmly with Israel and its people during these challenging times. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, and we condemn any acts of violence that threaten peace and security.
In the face of adversity, we remain dedicated to our mission and commitment to excellence.
As we move forward, rest assured that PMI will continue to work tirelessly to provide value to our clients and partners. Our spirit is unbreakable, and we will not allow anything to deter us.
Thank you for your ongoing support. Together, we will face these challenges with strength and unity.”
— PMI Kids’ World
Jazwares CEO and Founder Judd Zebersky addressed the war head-on as the company behind Squishmallows hosts an internship program with students from Reichman University in Israel. In a note shared on LinkedIn, Zebersky says that half of Jazwares’ recent intern cohort was called back to fight in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and that two students were immediately dropped into combat.
Additionally, Zebersky and his wife Laura pledged support to Brothers for Life, an organization that helps heal wounded Israeli soldiers, while Jazwares Cares is donating to Magen David Adom in Israel, which provides emergency medical and blood banking services; United Hatzalah of Israel, a volunteer-based emergency medical services organization; and Reichman University. The company is also taking an active stand against antisemitism by signing the Anti-Defamation League’s Workplace Pledge to Fight Antisemitism.
WowWee, the company behind Fingerlings and MINTiD Dog-E took to Instagram with a statement:
Just Play, the company behind Disney Doorables and Sesame Street Elmo Slide, also issued a statement via social media pledging support to The Toy Foundation and other charitable partners:
Toy Industry Impact & Response:
- The Toy Foundation is accepting donations (product + funds) to support various nonprofit partners providing aid to Israeli kids and families. Click here for more details.
- Creative Kids‘ New York-based National Sales Manager Chaim Silber has been called back to Israel as an IDF reservist.
- Jazwares is supporting Brothers for Life, United Hatzalah of Israel, and Reichman University. The company also signed the Anti-Defamation League’s Workplace Pledge to Fight Antisemitism.
- Just Play issued a statement in support of Israel and The Toy Foundation.
- PMI Kids’ World issued a statement in support of Israel and donated toys and games to aid groups.
- WowWee issued a statement in support of Israel and condemning the attacks.
The Toy Book will continue monitoring the industry response to the Israel-Hamas War and will update this post with additional information. If your company is providing aid or standing in support of Israel, please email news@toybook.com with information on your efforts for inclusion in this roundup.
