A local non-profit is spearheading a toy and gift drive that will benefit many people and even their furry friends this coming holiday season.
Not only toys, but also kids' clothes and pet supplies are being collected between Nov. 1 and Dec. 15 by the Infinite Expansion Foundation.
"We are gearing up for our ninth Annual Toy Drive, which supports Ishtar Women鈥檚 Resource Society, LAPS, and Kimz Angels," said foundation president Augustino Duminuco.
The foundation is focused on helping youth with programs to provide them with life skills. There's also an emphasis on physical activity. The foundation鈥檚 goal is to provide youth with the tools, environment, community, and mentors with lived experience to help them in the face of pressures at home, school and in their lives.
One way it helps is with the toy drive.
"Last year, with the incredible support of our community, we were able to assist 1,000 people across the 91原创s and Cloverdale area. This year, as the need has grown significantly, we are hoping to expand our reach and impact even further," Duminuco said.
The toy drive is accepting toys, clothing for children from birth to age 16, gift cards, cat and dog food and toys, non-perishable food, monetary donations, and grooming essentials such as toothpaste and toothbrushes.
"We have lists of all the children and teenagers, including their names, ages, and whether they are boys or girls. For Ishtar we make ensure that every woman and child have a bountiful Christmas filled with age-appropriate gifts," he explained. "Most (pet-related) donations go to LAPS for pets, and if we know a family has a cat or dog, we include special requests in their hampers. We also support Kimz Angels by donating all non-perishable items."
The foundation is looking for locations for donation boxes. It looks after drop-off and pick-up.
"We鈥檙e inviting local businesses to join our mission by hosting a donation box at your location. Help us collect toys for children, and supplies for pets," he explained.
People can support the toy drive by giving new, unwrapped toys and pet supplies. The foundation will also accept money, and tax receipts are issued.
The recipients are found in various ways.
"The need is significant, and we've had hundreds of people reach out from previous years and recent posts. Other organizations occasionally contact us for assistance, and we do our best to help whenever possible. Our community truly makes it all work," he said.
To host a donation box or make a donation, contact the foundation at 604-262-2197.
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