The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Wyoming Report

October 30, 2009

Toy fund organizers to kick off campaign

Annual distribution party slated Dec. 20

By Mary Catherine Brooks

Wyoming County Toy Fund organizers will kick off the season 6:30 p.m. today, Nov. 2, in the Pineville Junior High building at Palisades Park with an organizational meeting and work session.

Those interested in assisting with the massive project are encouraged to attend and participate, according to Todd Houck, project chairman.

Each Monday until the distribution party, between the hours of 6:30 and 8 p.m. in the old Pineville Junior High building, adjacent to the Pineville pool, work sessions to refurbish and clean used toys will be conducted, Houck said.

The 11th annual distribution party is scheduled Dec. 20 at Wyoming County East High School.

Additionally, anyone wishing to drop off good, clean used toys, or new toys, may do so during the Monday evening work sessions, Houck noted.

Any individual, youth, church or civic organization wishing to volunteer their time are welcome to participate in the Monday sessions, Houck emphasized.

More than 2,000 children will be invited, through the Wyoming County Department of Health and Human Resources, to participate in the Toy Fund distribution party. Usually between 1,200 and 1,500 of those invited will actually come to the party to pick up toys, according to organizers.

Thanks to the generosity of many individuals and businesses, primarily in Wyoming County and southern West Virginia, the Wyoming County Toy Fund has helped more than 20,000 needy children receive Christmas toys, warm clothing, and other gifts over the past decade, Houck noted.

“This is an excellent opportunity for college-bound students to earn community service hours,” Houck emphasized.

Cash contributions may also be made at any branch of First Peoples Bank, First Century Bank, or First Community Bank, or, contributions may be mailed to L. Dale Stewart, Treasurer; P.O. Box 268; Matheny, WV 24860. The Wyoming County Toy Fund is a registered non-profit corporation. Donations may be tax-deductible and those making donations will be listed in this newspaper.

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