Paul's Pals Pop-Up Store Offers Toys To Other Nonprofits

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Bryn Mawr community room became a temporary toy store Monday as one nonprofit opened the door to others.

"Two plastic kayaks, two electric guitars, some of the bigger, more fun items that people can use for giveaways," Hayley Landherr with Paul's Pals said.

It's the first year for the Paul's Pals pop-up, after a partnership with Toys R Us. From kiddie pools to electronics, everything at the pop-up will go to children with disabilities.

Paul's Pals began 20 years ago in honor of 12-year-old Paul Adelman, who, as his family says, lived with humor and strength through disabilities stemming from three brain surgeries. Monday's event is another example of how the foundation gives back to children with disabilities across the metro.

"Anytime we don't have to spend money is really helpful. As a not for profit independent hospital and foundation, we really rely on the community and this Paul's Pals is just an example of the generosity of our community here in the Twin Cities," Libby Utter of Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare said.

Understandably, many shoppers seemed appreciative, although a bit apprehensive.

"It's such a foreign concept for nonprofits to show up and to take," Landherr said. "They're so used to giving and they give so selflessly so to be able to take for nothing, to come in for whatever they need, has been really cool to watch all day."

The foundation also hosts a charity golf tournament every summer. It's one of the biggest fundraising events in the Twin Cities.

If you'd like to make a donation to Paul's Pals, click here.