Toy Donations Sought for Annual Community Block Party

The Redlands Police Department and several local businesses are collecting toys for the 16th Annual Children’s Christmas Block Party. Grant funding has been limited this year, making the contributions of donors even more important to provide toys and other gifts to local children during the annual event. In prior years, toy drive contributions were matched by grants, providing more than 1,000 toys and other gifts to our community, local shelters and families in crisis. All monetary and toy donations will assist in providing toys, food, bicycles, games and crafts to children during the annual block party, which is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Redlands Community Center, 111 W. Lugonia Ave. The annual block party typically draws an attendance of between 3,000 and 5,000 people. For many of the children, this will be the only “Christmas” they receive. Toyota of Redlands has also joined in the spirit of giving, offering a 10 percent discount on all parts and service for all donated toys of $10 value or greater. All makes and models are welcome. You can join in the spirit of giving by donating new, unwrapped toys for children between the ages of 4 and 12. Toys may be dropped off through Dec. 13 at the following locations throughout the City: • Toyota of Redlands – 921 New York St. • Gerrards Market -705 W. Cypress Ave. • Redlands Family Restaurant-107 E. Colton Ave. • Smiley Library – 125 E. Vine St. • Redlands Olive Avenue Market – 530 W. Olive Ave. • Oscar's Restaurant -19 N. 5th St. • World Discovery Store - 1448 Industrial Park Drive • Redlands High School (Campus Safety & ASB Club) – 840 E. Citrus Ave. • Redlands Community Center - 111 W. Lugonia Ave. • Redlands Police Department - 1270 W. Park Ave. For additional information on the Children’s Christmas Block Party, contact Officer Elyzabeth Green at 909-798-7534 extension 2.