SOMERS — Somers Human Services is running a Holiday Toy Shop, a toy drive for families who need help this season, to ensure that all Somers families have a joyful holiday season.
“Holiday toy drives are more than just helping families in need, especially children who might otherwise go without,” explained Jen Griger, youth services coordinator for Somers. “It brings our town together for a common cause. It raises awareness of the needs of our town, strengthens local connections and is an opportunity to have a positive impact on our youth seeing parents and others giving and helping within our community. Maybe one day it will inspire them to do the same and give back to their community and those in need.”
After 30 years of a toy drive for Somers, this year’s drive comes at a time when many human services organizations are seeing an increased need for their services and various supports. Griger explained that the need for support for holiday gifts is in addition to other basic needs like food and energy assistance.
“Being the coordinator of it this year has been positively overwhelming. From meeting donors and seeing the smiles and excitement on their faces, to seeing the joy and tears of relief it brings families in need,” noted Griger. “Our town never ceases to amaze me with its generosity and kindness and I’m so excited to be a part of such a wonderful program.”
The office is accepting toys from anyone who would like to donate at its office. However, several local organizations are also hosting toy drives at their locations: Stateline Financial Services and Cutting Loose.
“This is the first year the Jeep Club is hosting their annual toy drive/fundraiser for the Somers emergency fund and toy store,” said Griger. “We are so excited to have such generous donors helping to spread holiday magic to those who need it the most.”
Signups for the Holiday Toy Shop will run through Dec. 6 at the Somers Human Services office at 619 Main St. The program is available to Somers residents and an intake form is required for each child. Families can call the office at 860-265-7551, ext. 2, to sign up. The Somers Women’s Club will set up the toy shop for families to return to by appointment from Dec. 16-19.
