The Redwood City/San Mateo County Toy Drive is a true community effort — nearly 70 businesses, community centers and schools are hosting donation barrels accepting toys and books to support a countywide program benefiting low-income families in San Mateo County.
The event begins at the Fair Oaks Community Center at 2600 Middlefield Road in Redwood City, where low-income families verify they meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
After the toy/book donation barrels fill up, an annual wrapping party takes place at Red Morton Community Center 1120 Roosevelt Ave. in Redwood City, the gifts are delivered on three nights by volunteers from police, fire, the sheriff’s department and their families. Pick-up parties are also held to allow families to fetch the toys.
“This has become a very popular event and it’s not uncommon for City and County managers, city council members, Supervisors and other community champions riding shotgun as St. Nick’s helpers on the deliveries,” organizers said.
The toy drive is a cooperative effort orchestrated by the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, Redwood City Police and Fire Departments, Police Activities League, Woodside Fire, San Carlos Fire, San Mateo Sheriff’s Activities League and CARON program. To view the list of 67 sites hosting toy barrels, go here.
