By Gabriella Bancheri
With the holiday season rapidly approaching (as it always does), what better way to get in the spirit of giving than with the Atlantic County Toys for Kids Program? Supported and sponsored by many local businesses, Toys for Kids is a South Jersey based nonprofit organization that has been around for decades, and their sole focus is spreading positivity to those who need it most.
The organization, run by retired Sgt. Greg Depiano, keeps toys circulating South Jersey by collecting toys from generous donors within local communities and gifting them to those less fortunate. They visit hospitals and nursing homes bring not just gifts, but Santa Clause and his elves (yes, they’re the real deal).
Just last year the team donated over 14,500 toys thanks to the donations from South Jersey locals. The team also organizes lots of fundraisers, toy drives, block parties and Christmas parties.
This year, they’re hosting a Beef & Beer with one of their local sponsors, Maynard’s Café in Margate on December 15, 7-10 p.m. On Dec. 17, they’re hosting their Toy Distribution Run where, yes, you guessed it, Santa and his elves will be making a special appearance for selected families.
Just a few weeks from now, Toys for Kids will be honored as a Community Partner at the Crime Stopper of the Year dinner hosted at Atlantic City Country Club. Tickets are donation based and start at $50, so if you want to support a great local organization,
If you’re feeling like getting into the spirit of giving this season, Toys for Kids has drop box locations all around South Jersey from Atlantic City to EHT to Margate.
