A massive citywide toy drive will be mobilized this holiday season at four metro area Santa Claus Shops, distributing toys to an expected 18,000 children in need during the month of December.
Area King Soopers’ stores will host collection boxes for new and used toys beginning the day after Thanksgiving, Friday November 25. The drive will run through December 20.
“We are seeking ‘timeless toys’ appropriate for children up to age 11, such as stuffed animals, dolls, books, balls, and games,” said Lynn Stambaugh, president of the Denver Santa Claus Shop. “Infant and toddler toys are especially needed.”
The Santa Claus Shops in Adams , Arapahoe, Denver and Jefferson Counties are run independently but operate in much the same way. Volunteers set up temporary toy stores, and families needing extra help with gift-giving for their children are “invited” to attend the shops to select appropriate toys for them.
The Denver Shop is the largest and oldest of the four toyshops. Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, it is believed to be the oldest continuously running charity of its kind in the nation.
The Denver Shop, founded in 1931, also commemorates other milestones this year – besides its 75th anniversary. Agnes Beisner, who has volunteered since the shop opened, just celebrated her 90th birthday. Beisner was just 16 when she started volunteering and will help out again for the 2005 holiday season.
Another shop veteran is Gene Koelbel, who celebrates her 50th year working at the shop, as well as celebrating her 80th birthday on December 22.
“It was 1955, and I was 30 years old when I first volunteered for the Santa Claus Shop,” remembers Gene. “I have met thousands of families in need over the past 50 years. What greater reward than seeing these families so thankful, because they now can provide gifts for their children.”
For media inquiries, contact Jim Guttau at 720-530-9533.