Our "Dive Into Giving: Under the Sea Toy Drive" made a real splash among Logix team members, who donated an assortment of delightful gifts for children at Penny Lane Centers. We hold a toy drive for them annually and are continually blown away by the support shown. This event started in late July and wrapped up in August. (See what we did there?)
Penny Lane Centers continues to serve many worthy children and families. They'll store the more than 130 toys that we shared until the holidays. In December, they host a party for foster families and children, and the gifts are distributed. The $1,200 in gift cards and cash we delivered will also be given to those on the wish list. (The monetary donations will be used to purchase toys for new clients - those children who are new to Penny Lane.)
So, why do we host this event during the summer? The staff puts everything in storage so that as they get closer to the holidays, they can organize everything and prepare for the holiday party. It's tough for them to do both at the same time.
"When we receive the toys in the summer, our employees are so excited because they're the ones who have asked the kids what they want for the holidays," Fund Development Director Nydia Barakat said. "They're very happy because they're the ones who oversee these children - they want the best for them to keep them safe, healthy and happy. You play a big part in their lives because of the support you provide in this special way."
The toy(s) brought in might be the only gifts these children receive, and that means so much.
"Thank you so much for the wonderful gifts for our kids." Nydia said. "We cannot thank you enough. This world needs more organizations such as yours with people that care and give to make a better world for many."
In December, we'll be volunteering with Penny Lane, assembling holiday baskets for foster families. To learn more about Logix Community Stars and the charities we support throughout the year, click here.