The Southampton Lions Club has begun its 17th annual Toys For Kids campaign. As in past years, our normal collection sites are open to walk in customers at the Southampton branches of Bank ESB and PNCU, along with The Package Store in the Hampton Ponds Plaza in Westfield.
As in past years, we will also continue to hold collections on Saturday, Dec. 6 and 20 between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Route 10 at the gazebo in the center of town. Also, we are pleased to continue our 10th annual collaboration with our friends at the Southampton Police Department for their “Stuff a Cruiser” event on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 9:30 a.m. until noon in the Police Department parking lot on East Street. Without their help, our drive would not be able to help as many families as we do.
All toys are delivered to the Easthampton Community Center, where they are then distributed to children and families in need from the area. New, unwrapped toys for kids 12 and under are appreciated. For those who cannot or choose not to shop, monetary donations will be accepted and converted to gift cards for older kids as well as for toy purchases for highly requested items.
Last year’s total, thanks to our very generous and giving neighbors, resulted in 1,055 toys and 23 gift cards for teens too old for toys but still in need of some Christmas cheer. The need grows every year, but this year it is much worse, with families struggling to feed their families and keep them warm. Without your help and support, some kids will wake up Christmas morning and not find anything under the tree. Knowing you were a part of putting a smile on someone’s face this holiday season will warm your heart.
Anyone unable to attend any of the aforementioned events can call 413-626-1989 to arrange a pickup. Thanks in advance for your continued support of this worthwhile cause!
Arthur Lustenberger
Easthampton