By Kathy Chouteau
The Richmond Fire and Police Toy Program is seeking donations to its annual effort to bring holiday cheer to local families in need.
In past years the program has provided food, toys and bicycles to struggling families during the holiday season. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, this year they’ve elected to change things up a bit—but one thing will remain the same: They will still lend families facing hardships a helping hand.
“We know this year because of the health order, we cannot hold the gathering we normally would have. We also know many families are struggling,” said the Richmond Fire and Police Toy Program in a statement online. “Despite the COVID pandemic, the Toy Program board led by Police and Fire has still elected to go forward with a modified event and provide gift cards to families in need.”
Underscoring the great need among families for help this year, 1,392 people applied to benefit from the program. Registration to apply opened Nov. 1, and by today, it was already closed due to hitting the program’s capacity of helping 500 total families.
To donate to support this year’s efforts, click here. For more info, contact the program at [email protected], 510-375-3477 or visit the Richmond Fire and Police Toy Program website.
