By Mike Kinney
Several holiday toy giveaways and community events brought smiles to hundreds of children and families across Richmond this season.
On Saturday, Dec. 20, the Unlimited Wireless Metro by T-Mobile store at 12800 San Pablo Ave. handed out about 400 free toys to local kids. Owner Ian Taha said this was the 18th year the store has hosted the giveaway, and families began lining up outside well before the event opened. “This past Saturday was all about the kids and their smiles,” Taha said. “We’re truly grateful for the community’s support.” Many parents said the event offered much-needed help this year.
Earlier in the week, volunteers at the Booker T. Anderson Center packed 600 grocery bags and collected toys for the Richmond Fire and Police Toy Program. Richmond police, firefighters, city staff, Chevron employees, and community groups all took part. The toys and food were distributed around Dec. 20 to families in need, bringing extra cheer to the season.
The Richmond Police Department also hosted Shop With a Cop, where 65 children got to shop for toys with officers, and some even picked out gifts for their own families.
At DeJean Middle School, the Contra Costa Youth Services Bureau teamed up with Richmond police and community volunteers to hand out holiday stockings and host photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus for Stege School families.
Another highlight was the United Business Association toy giveaway on 23rd Street, where hundreds of toys were passed out amid Christmas music and a festive atmosphere, with help from Richmond police, according to Councilmember Cesar Zepeda.
Another large draw was the 7th Annual Ronnie “Bubba” Robinson Scholarship Foundation Holiday Toy Drive & Giveaway at Veterans Hall. Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia reported a “line out the door” as more than 1,000 toys were given away to children ages 3–13. The event also included free haircuts, hot dogs, face painting and other activities for families.
From local businesses to nonprofits and public safety partners, Richmond’s holiday events brought the community together and helped ensure many children had gifts to open this season.
