Here's where you can donate toys in Stockton this holiday season
Christmas lights can be seen twinkling on buildings and houses across town. Crowds of people flock to stores in search of the perfect gifts for loved ones.
The holiday season is in full swing, and several Stockton-based organizations are planning holiday toy drives to make Christmas brighter for local children in need.
Want a staycation? Enjoy and show off your hometown for the holidays
Here's a list of places in Stockton where you can donate toys this holiday season.
Stockton 209 Cares 8th Annual Toy Drive and Car Show
Nonprofit organization Stockton 209 Cares will be hosting its eighth annual toy drive at the Sherwood Mall 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4. Toys collected from the drive will be distributed to children during Stockton 209 Cares' third annual Christmas in the Streets on Dec. 18.
Each year the nonprofit chooses a different area of the city to distribute toys, Stockton 209 Cares founder Nancy Lamb said.
"We target areas where kids normally can't be kids and just bring some sunshine out to them," Lamb said. "Last year we targeted Kelley Drive because of all the shootings over there. This year there's been a lot of crime in south Stockton so we're going out that way."
Lamb said this year, the nonprofit is hoping to receive more toys for children ages 7 and up as it has traditionally received more toys for younger children.
Those who are unable to attend the toy drive are also welcome to drop off toys at Anderson's Towing located at 2383 N. Wilson Way and Phoenix Roofing located at 2991 W. March Lane during the month of December.
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4
Where: Sherwood Mall, 5308 Pacific Ave. Stockton
Information: Email stockton209cares@gmail.com or send a private message to Stockton 209 Cares' Facebook page.
Stockton Fire Department Holiday Toy Drive
The Stockton Fire Department is partnering with the Child Abuse Prevention Council to collect gift cards and unwrapped gifts for children now through Dec. 8. Those who would like to donate may drop off their donations to any Stockton Fire Station, Fire Administration or Fire Prevention offices.
"We will gladly accept your gifts to share with Stockton children and families through the Child Abuse Prevention Council," a representative for the Stockton Fire Department said.
When: Now through Dec. 8
Where: Any Stockton Fire Station or Stockton Fire Administration
Information: Call (209) 937-8801 or email stocktonfiretoydrive@gmail.com.
Sikh Pantry Holiday Toy Drive and Car Show
The Sikh Pantry is seeking donations for its second annual holiday toy drive. While the nonprofit prefers new toys, it will also be accepting toys that are gently used.
"We're hoping to end the year off on a good note and give back to the community, especially the kids," Sikh Pantry cofounder Sukhman Singh said.
Singh said the nonprofit is seeking toys for children of all ages, including teenagers.
"We do want to get some donations for teenagers ages 13 and up," Singh said. "We do know there are some teenagers in the community who are in lower income households that don't always receive presents."
Singh said the donations don't necessarily have to be toys, but types of presents that teenagers may enjoy.
Free donuts and hot chocolate will be available, and a DJ will be at the event.
"We're encouraging all of the community members to come through to have a good time and also people who have cars," Singh said. "Bring your cars through."
When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17
Where: Primelink Express, 825 Navy Drive, Stockton
Information: Private message Sikh Pantry's Instagram account with any questions.
Record reporter Hannah Workman covers news in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at hworkman@recordnet.com or on Twitter @byhannahworkman. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.
This article originally appeared on The Record: Stockton groups collecting toys for children in need for holiday season
