Flor Hermosa Toy Drive honors Mexican holiday traditions

By Kathy Chouteau

Richmond’s beautiful flower is brightening the holidays by giving toys to children in need. 

Flor Hermosa, or “beautiful flower” in Spanish, is an outdoor coffee shop located on the lush grounds of Golden Gate Palms in Richmond that’s hosting a Toy Drive now through Dec. 4. “Bring a new and unwrapped toy to donate, get 10 percent off your purchase,” stated the business, which opened earlier this year.  

Parents can sign up kids ranging from newborns to 18 years old for the Toy Drive distribution day, which will occur on a date to be determined (likely during the week before Christmas). The coffee shop will announce the date on its Instagram page and will require families to RSVP. Business Co-owner Alondra Navarro said that the day will include Santa Claus, goodie bags, pinatas and treats at an event inspired by Mexico’s holiday celebrations. 

Aside from dropping off toys at the coffee shop, donors have the option of donating via Flor Hermosa’s Amazon Wish List. The toys will be sent directly to the coffee shop. 

When dropping off their toy donations, donors can enjoy their 10 percent discount on a variety of tasty delights at the coffee shop. The menu offers hot and iced coffee drinks, including a variety of lattes like flan and sea salt caramel toffee. Mochas are also in the mix, as are flavored energy drinks and agua frescas. A selection of breads and pastries are baked daily in Napa, according to Navarro, as well as cookies made locally. 

As a former Richmond teacher, Navarro often witnessed gaps in wealth. “I would see the kids that had new shoes, backpacks and toys to bring to school, and then we had some of our kiddos that would come with nothing.” Back then, she saved up so that she could buy students in need new things.  

With the holidays at Flor Hermosa, it’s the same thing for Navarro. “I want everyone to have that opportunity to have a new toy,” she said, noting that the coffee shop affords her the opportunity to do so in a bigger space instead of just her classroom.  

Flor Hermosa  is at 425 Cutting Blvd. in Richmond. Questions? Reach out on Instagram messenger.