Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) believes every child deserves the “best gift ever” this holiday season.
The agency is hosting its eighth annual Holiday Gift Drive, which will provide presents for 2,500 children who are victims of abuse and neglect. Donation boxes have already been placed at various businesses throughout Northwest Ohio for community members to place new, unwrapped toys. Toys will be accepted through Dec. 17.
“We ask people to buy the things their own children and grandchildren would love, because our kids are the same as their kids,” said Julie Malkin, LCCS public information officer.
She noted this year’s campaign, running under the theme “Give the Best Gift Ever,” is expected to serve up to 600 more children than last year because children in foster care will receive gifts this year. Several years ago, foster parents were given a larger stipend to help cover the cost of gifts, but the agency’s financial situation has prevented an increase since then, Malkin said.
People can also make a $5 donation to the drive by texting BESTGIFT to 41911. These funds will go toward gifts to be purchased by co-sponsor Friends of LCCS, a 501(c)(3) organization that supports LCCS.
The agency is in particular need of gifts for children 3 years of age, and younger as well as giftcards for teenagers.
“We love the basic kinds of toys,” Malkin said. “Our kids oftentimes are behind in some of their basic skills. When you have games like Legos, like board games, arts and crafts supplies, those are learning opportunities as well as toys.”
Toys can be dropped off in marked boxes at the LCCS offices, 705 Adams St., or at any of the following businesses: Allshred Services, 3940 Technology Drive, Maumee; Barnes & Noble, 4940 Monroe St. (books only); Brondes Ford, 5545 Secor Road and 1511 S. Reynolds Road, Maumee; The Town Center at Levis Commons (selected retailers); all Toledo-area Burger King locations; all Toledo-area Family Video locations; all Lucas County Kroger stores; Toledo Auto Care, 4544 Monroe St.; Woodcraft, 5311 Airport Hwy.; and all Yark Automotive locations.
Other community partners are Toledo Free Press, WTOL 11, Bennett Management Corporation and WRVF 101.5 The River.
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