'Elves' Needed to Help Wrap Toys for Local Children in Need

[Editor's Note: The following information was received by Patch from the City of Redwood City, and is reprinted here.]

The Redwood City Police and Fire Departments, Police Activities League, and Parks Recreation and Community Services, have teamed up with the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, San Carlos Fire, Woodside Fire, and the CARON Project, and are asking for the public to volunteer to help wrap thousands of presents for our County's children hoping for presents this holiday.  The "wrapping party," being held on Monday, December 16th from 5pm-8pm at the Red Morton Community Center, 1120 Roosevelt Avenue, is a longstanding Redwood City tradition and important element of the Annual Toy and Book Drive.

Annually, a collaboration of local agencies and non-profits work diligently to bring this Toy and Book Drive to our community. The collaboration's efforts make it possible for "Santa" to deliver more than 12,000 presents to the door step of an estimated 500 families in need throughout San Mateo County. Instead of arriving by reindeer, Santa will deliver the gifts via fire engine truck or police car.  

On December 16th, volunteers will make Santa's delivery possible by helping police officers, fire fighters, PAL Board members, sheriff officers, non-profit representatives, and fellow community volunteers wrap thousands of presents for hundreds of families in the Redwood City/San Mateo County area. Wrap, tape, and supplies will be provided. People are encouraged to attend as much of the wrapping party as they like, and to bring friends, family and members of their community affiliations with them to help the cause.

One thing that makes this program special is the collection and distribution of new books as well as toys. Each child served receives two gifts, a book, a stuffed animal, and several stocking stuffers. Last year, over 50 local businesses filled 60 donation barrels with over 12,000 toys and books, and provided them to about 500 needy families.

"This year, we are looking to break that record," explains Bob Bell, City Manager of Redwood City. "The Toy and Book Drive is yet another demonstration of how the Redwood City family of employees and community members pull together to take care of families who could use the extra help around the holidays."

Donations of toys and books may be made at any collection barrel, or at City Hall, the Police Department, the Main Library, or any fire station. Businesses, individuals, or groups wishing to get involved can get more information at www.toydriverwc.com.