An annual toy drive is underway to help area kids in need.
The LACASA Collection is again inviting the community to participate in its fifth annual Starry Night Holiday Toy Drive and help a child in need at LACASA Center.
Running through Dec. 17th, the Starry Night donation drive invites community members to bring a new, unwrapped toy, gift or gift card to the LACASA Collection, a unique charity boutique where all proceeds stay local and help victims of abuse at LACASA Center.
Toys and gifts are needed for boys and girls of all ages. This year’s biggest need is for VISA or discount-store gift cards for tweens and teens. Gift cards to locations such as Wal-Mart, Meijer, and Kohl’s ensure older children do not get left out and provides them an opportunity to shop for items that interest them. Younger children enjoy arts & crafts, games & books, dolls & action figures, and Lego kits.
Donors can place their gift under the store’s giving tree and write their name, or initials, on a star ornament to be hung on the tree. In return for donating a new present, donors will receive a twinkling in-store discount coupon, 50% off one item (excluding furniture).
LACASA Center is an independent, locally-based nonprofit that provides shelter, counseling and critical services for victims of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. All victim services are provided a no charge.
The agency also conducts educational programs throughout the community to raise public awareness and help prevent abuse.
All donated toys and gifts will be distributed to children living in the LACASA Crisis Shelter and those who participate in the agency’s Children’s Counseling Program. LACASA clients who are parents also will have an opportunity to select gifts for their children to ensure Santa is prepared with everything he needs for his big sleigh ride.
Toys and gift cards can be brought to LACASA Collection Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. or Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 120 W. Highland Rd, Kroger/Crossroads Plaza, Howell.
Community partners who are collecting toys and gift cards during the donation drive include Hands On Health Chiropractic in Brighton, Trinity Health Brighton & Howell locations, and Minerva’s Salon & Wellness Spa in Brighton.
For additional details about the toy drive, visit lacasacollection.org.
