Mount Prospect launches 17th annual Toys for Kids

Donations are now being accepted for the Mount Prospect Fire Department’s 17th annual Toys for Kids drive. This year, Toys for Kids is expected to benefit approximately 350 children in 120 families.

The program was established to help underprivileged families in Mount Prospect give their children a memorable holiday season. Families participating in this year’s program will be invited to one of the Mount Prospect fire stations on Saturday, Dec. 14 to pick up their toys and visit with Santa Claus. Mount Prospect firefighters and staff from the village’s Human Services Department will be serving cookies and hot chocolate.

Firefighter Kyle Laurinaitis stated that the program is a “great way to get in the holiday spirit.” Mount Prospect Fire Chief John Malcolm said that the “response by the community every year to this program is incredible. It is their generosity that makes this program a reality year after year.”

Residents wishing to make a donation can drop off new, unwrapped toys at any of the Mount Prospect fire stations through Dec. 13. In addition to toys, residents can also donate gift cards to major department stores for the older children. The program provides gifts for children up to age 17.

Donations can be dropped off at Fire Station 12, 1601 Golf Road, Fire Station 13 — 112 E. Northwest Highway, and Fire Station 14, 2000 E. Kensington Road. For more information visit www.mountprospect.org.