Local groups are gathering toys for children in need, and hoping the economy doesn't make Grinches of would-be givers.
By SAUNDRA AMRHEIN
Published December 2, 2003
'Tis the season to share a teddy bear.
Several fundraisers are under way to gather toys so children who might otherwise be empty-handed on Christmas morning will have a gift to unwrap.
But a tough financial year threatens the effort of some area agencies.
Youth and Family Alternatives is trying to raise donations of toys for more than 800 children for its annual Christmas party but fears it could fall short.
"The economy has put a crimp in the dollars we've been normally receiving," said Magda Embden, a director of children and family programs at the agency.
Youth and Family Alternatives provides out-patient counseling, school-based intervention and in-home support for children ranging from infants to 17 years of age who are involved in the foster care system or at risk of substance abuse.
The annual Christmas party involves refreshments, pictures with Santa Claus, a present, and time with some of Santa's "helpers" - local firefighters or sheriff's deputies.
Also, the agency's RAP House holds special meals and gives presents for the children staying there. That includes children who have run away from home or are at risk of abuse or neglect.
To donate a toy or other goods, or for more information, call Mark Phillips at (727) 835-4166, ext. 324 or Embden at ext. 330.
In other efforts, the East Pasco YMCA in Zephyrhills sponsors an angel tree in December. Organizers adopt families screened by social service agencies and put family members' clothing sizes and gift requests on a tree, said executive director Scott Harper. Those wishing to sponsor a family can pick up a profile and go shopping. Items then are returned to the YMCA for distribution.
Toys for Tots hopes to get a big boost of donations with help from the U.S. Postal Service. On Dec. 6, residents are asked to place an unwrapped new toy by their mailbox to be collected by the letter carrier.
Toys for Tots coordinators will collect the gifts and distribute them Dec. 20 to families registered through schools and the state Department of Children and Families, said Robert Loring, coordinator for east side operations.
This year, Loring's goal is to give toys to 1,000 families and 3,000 children, he said. That's up from 2,400 children served last year, he added.
On the west side, so far 590 families with 1,277 children are registered to receive toys, said Norris Buchter, Toys for Tots coordinator for west Pasco.
The number could rise before Christmas, Buchter added.
Toys for Tots will also benefit from collecting donated toys deposited in drop boxes placed at major shopping centers, businesses and residential areas throughout the county.
Toys for Tots on the east side hopes to fatten its toy collection through two golf fundraisers. One was held several weeks ago at Scotland Yards Golf Club near Zephyrhills and netted a $1,300 check and a horse trailer full of toys, Loring said.
Another golf tournament is planned for Lexington Oaks Country Club in Wesley Chapel.
"We always thank the people out in the public," Buchter said. "They really support us. We don't have the funds to buy all the toys for the kids. . . . We get it through donations."
To reach Loring, call (352) 588-4230. To reach Buchter, call (727) 845-1709.
The Suncoast Eye Center on Lakeshore Boulevard in Hudson has collected $4,500 worth of toys and is asking the public for help in collecting more for needy children, said Sue Campbell, the northern metro sales director for WDUV-FM. In addition, Victory Worship Church off U.S. 19 at 3545 Universal Plaza in Holiday asks the public for help with toys and wrapped gifts to be given to needy families. For information, call (727) 848-7729.
