Toy sale to aid orphans in Kenya

More than 40 families in the Northwest suburbs will host a used toy sale in Algonquin to raise money for refugee children in Kenya, Africa.

All proceeds will be distributed through Bright Hope International, a relief organization based in Hoffman Estates that seeks to bring hope to people who live on less than $1 a day.

The Kids' Toy Sale will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 1750 Cumberland Parkway in Algonquin.

In addition to used and new toys, the sale will include books, videos, games, puzzles and more, as well as raffle prizes donated from local businesses.

The first Bright Hope International toy sale in 2004 was the idea of a 6-year-old who learned of children who were going hungry in Africa and decided to sell her toys as a way to feed them.

Since then, an increasing number of families have come together to give away their toys and used items to benefit orphans and whole communities.

Last year, 21 families participated in this third annual toy sale, which raised more than $3,500 to help about 900 AIDS orphans receive food and clothing.

This year, the families hope to raise even more money for the Kenyan Refugee Project to pay for tuition, books and uniforms for 28 refugee children who would otherwise not be able to attend school.

For details, call Barb Olsson at (847) 946-2103, e-mail barbolsson@gmail.com or visit www.brighthope.org.