The Resource Center Announces Toys for Tots Signup Dates

JAMESTOWN – Area residents can apply for assistance through the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots drive, which is coordinated by The Resource Center.

Families that are connected with a human service agency should apply for assistance through their service coordinator.  For families that do not have a service coordinator, The Resource Center will accept walk-in applications at the following times and locations only:

• In Dunkirk, applications will be accepted from 12:00 to 3:00 Thursday, November 21, in The Resource Center’s facility at 186 Lake Shore Drive West.
• In Jamestown, applications will be accepted from 1:00 to 4:00 Friday, November 22, and from 9:00 to noon Saturday, November 23.  Both of those walk-in sessions will take place at the Gateway Train Station, 211 West Second Street.

Children from birth to age 17 living at home are eligible to receive toys.  All applicants must bring identification for themselves and their children living in their household, as well as proof of household income.  Applicants must meet income criteria.  All applications will be verified for eligibility requirements.

The Resource Center has coordinated the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County each year since 2000.  Last year, thanks to the generous support of the community, TRC was able to make the holidays brighter for 2,340 children.

Those wishing to support the Toys for Tots drive may do so in several ways.  Donations of new, unwrapped toys are being accepted at dozens of area businesses.  Because there usually are several age groups for which the need for toys surpasses the amount of donations received, The Resource Center accepts financial donations in order to purchase toys.  To make a donation, send a check made payable to “Toys for Tots” to The Resource Center, 200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701.  In addition, volunteers are needed to collect, sort and distribute toys.

For more information, phone Terri Johnson at 661-1044.