When Prince George families need to make way for the new toys children will find under the tree this year, there's a great way to recycle the older gently-used toys. Donate them to children in the community by participating in REAPS 14th annual Recycle Toy Drive Saturday, Nov. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Recycling and Environmental Action Planning Society is asking for donations of quality used toys which will be distributed to local children's organizations and so far there are 13 agencies on the list, including several group homes, St. Vincent De Paul Society, AWAC and Healthiest Babies Possible. Donations can be made for boys or girls aged new born to 18 years old and toys are divided into age categories.
"We average between 150 and 250 boxes of toys each year and one year we did get up to about 325 boxes," said Terri McClymont, executive director of REAPS.
The public is asked to drop off good, clean, quality used toys at the Compost Demo Garden, 1950 Gorse Street on the day of the event.
"From there volunteers will sort, separate, box up and label toys for various community groups and advocacy groups for children so they in turn distribute toys to their clients during the holiday season," said McClymont.
If there are any needy families in Prince George people wish to be put on the list for a donation, let us know, she added.
"We're looking for volunteers to come the day of the event to help sort, separate and box the toys we receive as well as volunteers to deliver to the various groups the same day or the Monday and Tuesday following the event," McClymont explained. "We're also looking for donations for the SPCA, including blankets, cleaning supplies, paper towels, garbage bags and dog toys."
For more information or to volunteer call 250-561-7327 or e-mail volunteer@reaps.org.
