CHiPs for Kids toy drive continues until December 22
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is once again collecting toys for children in need as part of their “CHiPs for Kids” toy drive.
The annual drive is a statewide initiative that has given away millions of toys throughout California, and they couldn’t do it without donations from the community.
The drive begins Friday (November 7) with a special event held at Walgreens in Yucca Valley from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. CHP officers will be on hand to personally collect toys at this event.
At last year’s event, I spoke with CHP Officer Mike Radford, who explained the origins of the event saying, “We are kicking off the Chips for Kids toy drive, a toy drive we do every year. It started when some officers decided they wanted to help some kids in their area. It’s now been adopted throughout the state. And if you donate a toy, you can help a needy child here in the Morongo Basin. We’ve been doing it in our area for over ten years.”
The officers will distribute these toys by hand, but we also work with other institutions like schools and the victims advocate from the District Attorney’s office. Radford says “anyone that knows of a child in need of toys is welcome to contact us.”
“I have personally distributed toys on Christmas Eve and Christmas, at least ten different times. It is an absolute joy to make their day, their holiday season by giving them toys. A lot of these children aren’t receiving anything otherwise. We’re happy to make a positive connection between children and law enforcement,” Radford said.
Anyone wishing to donate a new, unwrapped gift can do so at:
- The Morongo Basin CHP Office
- Walgreens
- Bowladium
- GRND SQRL
- 29 Beer Co.
- Grocery Outlet
- Circle K in Morongo Valley
- Fans Sports Grill
- Road Runner Copy Center
- Small Town Grill in Morongo Valley
The last day to donate toys will be December 22nd.
