By Kathy Chouteau
For years, the students and parents from St. David of Wales Catholic School in Richmond have collected toys for children during the holidays for those who would otherwise go without them. Then, in an unofficial, parade-like fashion, they walk the toys down to the local Fire Station. The firefighters eventually join with police to give them out.
This year, “they’re coming to us,” announced Principal Brian Swanson. St. David’s will host the “Richmond Fire & Police Toy Program Benefit Raffle,” Saturday, Dec. 13 from 4-10 p.m. at the school’s Rose Mello Hall. The community is invited to bring new, unwrapped gifts for children in the age-range of preschool to eighth grade to contribute to the donation effort.
“We want to start asking families for toys right after Thanksgiving,” said Principal Swanson, about the gift-collection kick-off. Along with the school, they can also donate gifts at any fire station in Richmond.
Eventually, the firefighters and police give “toys, bikes, food and love” to kids at a separate Dec. 20 giveaway event that families have signed up for in advance, according to organizers.
Aside from the gift-collection at St. David’s event, there will be food, carnival games, vendors and more fun on hand for the community to enjoy. Vendors are still needed for “Benefit Raffle” at the school. Booth fees are $40 and vendors are required to donate a toy. Learn more and apply.
St. David’s is located at 871 Sonoma St. in Richmond. To inquire about the Richmond Fire and Police Toy Program, or to support it with financial contributions, click here.
