Operation Homefront Holiday Toy Drive

Operation Homefront Illinois hosted its annual Holiday Toy Drive event on Friday at the Uno’s Chicago Grille in Gurnee.

Free holiday toys were given to children of military families. Another toy give-a-way was also held at the Family Assistance Center North Riverside Armory in North Riverside.

James Michael, executive director of Operation Homefront Illinois, said more than 300 children received presents. The toys, Michael said, were donated through a campaign with Dollar Tree, with customers buying and donating items. The group also raises funds to purchase items.

Operation Homefront is a national nonprofit group that works with 4,500 volunteers to provide emergency and financial assistance to the families of military members. More information about Operation Homefront can be found at www.operationhomefront.net.