Fisher-Price is one of the companies asking for a voluntary return of almost one million toys, which include some based on Sesame Street characters like Big Bird.
The problem is that an unhealthy amount of lead in the paint was used. The Salvation Army in Staunton is one non-profit organization that is concerned.
"Made in China" is a commonly used phrase for commonly used product, especially toys. Its significance has grown for Captain David May of the Salvation Army. The recall means he has to pay close attention to the products they donate to those in need.
"Well we are responsible for being attentive to news when we see it regarding toys that we receive as donations. So we are on the lookout for recalls and whether it effects any of the toy inventory that we have," May says.
The Staunton Branch services children from birth to 12 years old, so May has to know whether the toys are safe.
"Each toy is hand placed in the box that the families receive," he says. "So at that point, it would be critical for us to let our volunteers know that these are the toys that have been recalled and these are the toys that are not acceptable to distribute."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that an unhealthy amount of lead was found in the paint. China has since pledged to improve product safety.
"The biggest X factor that we have encountered would be those toys that are given by individuals in the community, who in good faith would purchase a toy and bring it in to us," says May.
May is confident that the Salvation Army will continue to distribute safe toys.
He says, "In any situation, we make sure that toys go to children in need, who really need their day brightened, as I haven't found a kid yet, who's day isn't brightened when they receive a toy."
Fisher-Price and the Commission say that parents should keep their kids away from the toys that have been recalled. They should also contact the company immediately.