Mount Prospect Toys for Kids Program accepting donations at fire stations
During this time of economic uncertainty, many Mount Prospect families can use a helping hand to provide their children a memorable holiday experience. By donating toys or gift cards to the Mount Prospect Toys for Kids program, you can do just that. The 24th annual Toys for Kids program offers residents and businesses an opportunity to make the holidays brighter for hundreds of local children. Last year alone, the program assisted over 300 children from over 100 families.
Mount Prospect Human Services Director Julie Kane discussed the vital need for such community programs that support families in need.
"This event helps to relieve financial stress so that parents can enjoy the holidays with their children. For some children, this is one of the few gifts they receive to open on the holiday," said Kane.
Due to the pandemic, a few changes have been made to the program this year. The program will serve those residents that have been assisted throughout this year in the Emergency Assistance Program. The Fire and Human Services Departments have teamed up to adapt the gift distribution to be a drive-through event, where families can drive through to pick up their gifts in order to maintain safe social distancing.
Residents or businesses that would like to make a donation can drop off new, unwrapped toys to any of the Mount Prospect fire stations through Friday, Dec. 11. This year, specifically looking for donations for children ages 7-13. In addition to toys, the donation of gift cards to major department stores is encouraged for older children, as the program provides gifts for children up to age 17.
Mount Prospect Fire Chief Brian Lambel said, "COVID 19 has placed all of us in some very challenging times. Our concerns include the safety of all our staff and the entire community. We are also empathetic of those in need, which is why we will hold the toy drive this year. It is still the collaborative efforts of the community, Human Services Department and the Fire Department that make this event a success each year."
Toy and Gift Card Donations can be dropped off at:
• Fire Station 12: 1601 W. Golf Road
• Fire Station 13: 111 E. Rand Road (vestibule off Rand Road)
• Fire Station 14: 2000 E. Kensington Road
For information, visit www.mountprospect.org or call (847) 870-5660.