Redwood City Police Kick Off Holiday Toy & Book Drive

From the Redwood City Police Department:

The holiday season is a time of joy, happiness, family, and friendship.

Unfortunately, there are local kids and families in need, who don’t have the opportunity to share in the spirit of the holidays.

This year, the Redwood City Police and Fire Departments, Police Activities League (PAL), 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 to bring the Christmas Toy and Book Drive and the holiday spirit right to the doorstep of many needy families.

With help from the Fair Oaks Community Center and a corps of volunteers, this annual event has become a welcome tradition in the local community - but it can only happen with the community’s help. 

Businesses can help by placing donation barrels at their sites; individuals and families can help by donating new, unwrapped toys and books; and volunteers are asked for their time and energy for "wrapping parties" where everyone takes part in preparing the gifts for the kids, from gift-wrapping, to "quality control," to helping with food and drinks. Corporate help can be any of the above, or a monetary donation. 

Last year, over 50 local businesses filled 60 donation barrels with over 12,000 toys, and provided them to about 500 needy families. Deliveries take place with Santa Claus in a police car or a fire engine arriving at the home to hand out the presents, giving the kids a thrill they’ll long remember.

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, all of which bring that holiday sparkle to their eyes. 

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 should visit www.toyderiverwc.com for more information. 

See our video about the 2010 Toy & Book Drive above.

 

Here are some upcoming dates for Toy Drive events: 

Wednesday, Dec. 5 - Fundraiser Party, 6-9 p.m.
Arya Global Cuisine 
855 Middlefield Road, Redwood City
20% of the evenings revenue will be donated to the Toy Drive. 
Drop off unwrapped toys at the restaurant 

Thursday, Dec. 13 - Wrapping Party, 5-9 p.m.
Red Morton Community Center 
1120 Roosevelt Ave., Redwood City 

During the week of Dec. 17: 
Peet’s Coffee 
2600 Broadway 
During the week of Dec. 17, Peet’s will be collecting monetary donations for the Toy Drive. They will also provide free coffee at our Wrapping Party. 
Drop off unwrapped toys at the restaurant. 

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