Clover Toys, a long-standing toy store in Ballard, will close its doors on September 1 after more than two decades in the neighborhood.
Owners Brittney and Alan Geleynse announced the closure following an unsuccessful GoFundMe campaign, noting that all donations are being refunded.
In a statement, the owners said, “We are all deeply saddened to be closing and will miss the community we have built. Serving the families of Ballard has been a profound joy, and we are grateful for the support we’ve received over the years.”
Clover Toys, which moved from its original location on Ballard Ave to the Ballard Blocks (4609 14th Ave NW) in 2022, has been part of the community through sponsorship of a Ballard Little League team, the Clover Toys Hedgehogs, and donations to organizations including El Centro de la Raza, Camp Ten Trees, and the Daybreak Star Preschool. The store also hosted an annual toy drive for Treehouse and offered free events such as story times, game nights, and crafts.
Since acquiring the store seven years ago, the Geleynses introduced sustainability efforts by focusing on eco-friendly products, providing in-store recycling, and offering carbon-neutral shipping, making it the only toy store in North Seattle to do so. A mutual aid program intended to support other small businesses had been planned for this fall, but will not move forward.
As part of its farewell, Clover Toys is holding a closing sale with 40% off all in-store merchandise.
Photo: Clover Toys