The Abbey WeHo Hosts 18th Annual Christmas in September Toy Drive

It was Christmas in September at the Abbey Food and Bar. David Cooley, the founder and owner of The Abbey Food and Bar, and “Selling Sunset” star Chrishell Stause hosted the 18th annual toy drive benefiting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). The event returned to West Hollywood at 692 N. Robertson Boulevard, on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. It included a performance by singer Lyle Anthony.

The Abbey transformed into a winter wonderland for the annual toy drive. It was an opportunity to bring a toy for a good cause and take photos with a sexy Santa, a drag Mrs. Claus, and Gogo dancing elves. The indoor bar area was packed with toys by 9pm.

For nearly two decades, David Cooley and The Abbey Food & Bar have hosted Christmas in September, a West Hollywood tradition that brings in thousands of toys for CHLA during a time of the year when they need them most. By October, CHLA’s toy inventory is at its lowest point and people don’t typically donate toys again until the holidays. The Abbey’s annual Christmas in September event helps fill the CHLA toy chest to make sure that every child at the hospital gets a toy. The public event this year was sponsored by Ketel One. Guests 21+ were required to bring an unwrapped toy for a teen or infant, which was exchanged for a complimentary Ketel One beverage, hosted appetizers, and desserts.

Cooley teams up with a celebrity guest each year, and this year’s Christmas in September toy drive was hosted by actress and real estate agent Chrishell Stause. Known for her role on the Netflix unscripted show “Selling Sunset”, Stause alongside with The Abbey’s owner, David Cooley. The Abbey will be transformed into a winter wonderland for one night, where it snows on the red carpet. Guests will be greeted by Sexy Santa and Drag Mrs. Claus. Gogo dancing elves will accept the toy donations filling a giant sleigh full of toys that will be delivered the next day to CHLA.

Toy donation guidelines can be found here and CHLA Wish List and toy registry information can be found in the link below:

https://www.chla.org/donate-toys