For many years now, the Cheyenne River youth Project has been bringing joy to families on Christmas day through our annual Christmas Toy Drive.  The Christmas Toy Drive is not just about the gifts that children receive under their tree- it is about the gift of hope and wishes fulfilled. 

Many of our children suffer the effects of poverty everyday, continuously going without, knowing that luxuries like new toys or clothes are simply not availble to them.  Our children handle this reality with an incredible grace and humility that is truly touching. This is why watching their faces on Christmas morning, as we arrive with their gifts, is so special for us.

The program does take a lot of preparation and dedication on the part of our staff and volunteers, as well as our wonderful donors.  CRYP accepts "Letters to Santa" from October-late November and passes them on to friends and organizations all over the country.  These generous individuals then choose gifts with personal attention to each child's particular dreams and wishes. The gifts are sent to CRYP for sorting and wrapping by a tireless group of community volunteers who work day and night to have the work completed by Christmas Eve.  Santa and his elves are then up bright and early on Christmas Day to hand deliver each family's gifts.

Our kids always surprise us with their undulled excitement, gratitude and even cookies left out for Santa to sample as he passes through! Families gather together to watch their children's smiling faces as they open their gifts and ohhh and awww over each item.  The program serves over 730 children all over Eagle Butte and the surrounding communities.

CRYP would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all of our friends and family participating in the Toy Drive each year. Thanks also to Running Strong for American Indian Youth and Christian Relief Services, who lend significant financial support to the program.