SEQUIM — Sequim Community Aid is accepting donations of toys for its Toys for Sequim Kids giveaway.
The nonprofit, which provides year-round help with utility and rent for those in need, will distribute toy donations at the Sequim Prairie Grange at 290 Macleay Road from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14. Items are for children from young babies to eighth-graders.
Blankets and throws also will be given at the event. Boy Scout Troop 1103 will host a blanket-throw drive from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Grocery Outlet at 1045 W. Washington St. Boy Scout Troop 90 will host another blanket drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 10 at the same store.
Toys can be delivered to the Fifth Avenue fire station on weekdays and at several stores: Grocery Outlet, Co-op Farm &Garden at 216 E. Washington St., Sequim Gym at 145 E. Washington St. and QFC at 990 E. Washington St.
Christmas trees with slips of paper requesting specific toys can be selected and the toys can be dropped off at these stores through Dec. 12.
Blue Sky Realty and other participating real estate agents also will collect throws and toys through Dec. 12.
During the distribution, parents must show proof of Sequim School District residence, sign their names and tell the ages and genders of their children.
An “elf” or volunteer will take the parent to the tables that have gifts for children and help select them.
Each child usually receives a stuffed animal plus two toys — one a stocking-stuffer and the other a little more expensive — and also may receive an age-appropriate game and an item of clothing. Each family will receive a throw or a blanket.
A bicycle per family is available while they last. Last year, Sequim Community Aid served more than 400 youths.
Sequim Community Aid has a need for volunteers to serve as elves.
While many volunteers repeat as elves from year to year, the group loses a few helpers each year.
“It’s best to do it while you can and enjoy working in a giving environment,” program organizers say.
“This gives Christmas to all of those involved in programs like Toys for Sequim Kids.”
This program is co-chaired by Jim Davis and Kathy Suta for Sequim Community Aid.
Monetary donations can be mailed to Sequim Community Aid, P.O. Box 1591, Sequim, WA 98382. On checks, write “Toys” on the memo line if the donation is for that purpose.
To donate for general year-round utility assistance, leave the memo line blank.
For more information or for assistance, call Sequim Community Aid at 360-681-3731.
