Owasso, Okla – Approximately 3,000 children received toys at Rejoice Church’s fourth annual Toys for Tots event on Saturday, December 14.
The event continues to grow. This year, approximately 1,000 families attended the event, up from 550 in 2012. 350 volunteers worked to make the event a success. Volunteers helped every step of the way; from greeting and directing traffic to helping families choose the perfect toy for their child. Volunteers were on site long before the event started, making sure everything was just right for the families participating. This year, El Fogon graciously provided lunch for each volunteer.
“We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the community,” said Michelle Hayes, Toys for Tots Coordinator. “From providing food for volunteers to toy and monetary donations, this event truly could not happen without the support of the Owasso community. We are humbled and grateful to live in such a caring community.”
Without community partners in Owasso the Toys for Tots event would not be possible. Numerous businesses around the city of Owasso served as toy drop off locations, collecting toys for the event. These businesses provide a convenient way for community members to donate toys.
Toys for Tots had something for everyone, from hot chocolate and cookies to a special program for participating families and even a surprise visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Then, to finish out each session, families were taken to special shopping rooms to choose the perfect gift for their child.
“It was amazing to see the looks on the families’ faces when they chose just the right gift for their child,” said Hayes.
The event is made possible each year through partnerships with Rejoice Church, Rejoice Christian School, the Rejoice Foundation and many others in the Owasso area.
