Old Spice gives back to communities with 'HoliSpray' toy exchange

CINCINNATI — Old Spice launched its first holiday toy donation program with nonprofit Second Chance Toys, an organization with a goal of keeping plastic toys away from landfills by donating them to children in need. The Old Spice "HoliSpray" Toy Donation Exchange runs from Dec. 3 to Dec. 15. Parents are encouraged to donate gently used plastic toys in exchange for Old Spice Re-Fresh Body Spray.

According to the brand, the initative was inspired by a humorous moment from Old Spice's "Dadsong" television campaign, in which a dad signifies his son's transition to adulthood by riding over childhood toys with a lawnmover.

"We're excited to partner with Second Chance Toys and bring attention to a cause that is so important to helping today's youth," said John Sebastian, Old Spice brand director at Procter & Gamble. "We couldn't think of a more fitting way to illustrate our message about a boy's transition to manhood than with a toy drive that rewards a simple act of kindness with the gift of manhood — Old Spice Re-fresh Body Spray."

Close to 14 million childern in the United States live in families with incomes below the federal poverty level, according to data from the National Center for Children in Poverty.

"Toys provide children with laughter, fun and exploration of the world and are especially needed this time of year," said Bronna Lipton, executive director of Second Chance Toys. "We're thrilled to work with Old Spice on this particular program, as we're both dedicated to providing young guys the right tools to help them grow up and eventually become confident young men. We can’t think of a better way to bring holiday smiles to kids and grown-ups of all ages."

To help drive participation, Old Spice has brought in actor Nolan Gould of ABC's comedy "Modern Family," and Old Spice Guy Isaiah Mustafa to be ambassadors for the exchange. Gould and Mustafa will host a toy collection event at Hollywood High School in Los Angeles, one of the many collection locations across the country that are participating in the event.

To find a Old Spice "HoliSpray" Toy Exchange location, click here.