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Violet Township gears up for toy drive
(by Christine Bryant, Eastside Editor - November 24, 2010)
The Violet Township Fire Department has once again kicked off its annual holiday toy drive, and this year, organizers expect a greater need for donations.
“The need this year is expected to exceed the previous years due to the local economic situation, so we appreciate any assistance we can get,” said Lt. Gregg Goodwin, one of the toy drive’s organizers.
Now in its 22nd year, the fire department and Violet Township Firefighter’s IAFF Local 3588 have worked together to collect toys for children who may not have otherwise received them due to economic hardship.
The collected toys go to charities within Fairfield County and other social service organizations, who then identify and distribute the toys to families in need.
“Pickerington Schools also identifies families and distributes toys for us,” Goodwin said.
The toys go to families who live in Pickerington and Violet Township, as well as families who live throughout Fairfield County.
“Last year we collected approximately 3,800 toys for area children,” he said.
Most years, however, organizers lack in toys for children older than 8.
“There is also a great need every year for gift cards and monetary donations to assist families of older kids or those with special needs,” Goodwin said.
Toys that are new and unwrapped may be dropped off at any Violet Township firehouse, as well as several locations throughout the Pickerington area including Kroger, Walgreens and Max and Ermas.
Those in need of assistance may contact Fairfield County Information and Referral at 108 W. Main St., Suite C, Lancaster, OH 43130, or by calling (740) 687-0500.
For more information on donating toys, call (614) 382-5952.
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