Community responds to Rotary's holiday children's party needs

Less than a day after announcing an annual holiday party for needy children was in danger of not having gifts, the community has opened its hearts and wallets to help.

Fox Lake-Round Lake Area Rotary officials said donations of toys and money are pouring in as officials scramble to collect enough gifts for the 500 children set to attend Sunday's George Watson Memorial Rotary Children's Christmas Party.

"We are extremely happy with the support so many people have shown us in the last 24 hours," said Grant Township Supervisor Kay Starostovic, president of the Rotary. "But, we need a lot more, and time is definitely running out."

So far, about 150 large toys and about 200 smaller toys have been donated by people and groups as far away as Schaumburg, Starostovic said. Officials estimate they need another 600 toys.

The Rotary Club learned Monday no toys would be provided for this year's party by Toys for Tots because of a policy change to stop donating to charity organizations and, instead, give directly to needy families.

U.S. Marine Staff Sgt. Chris Kemery, coordinator of Toys for Tots for Weapons Company 2nd Battalion 24th Marines - which handles the party annually - said the change was made because there was no accountability by organizations giving away toys.

"I am extremely grateful to the community for all they have done to help us with this," Starostovic said. "But, we are definitely sweating it, hoping we can get enough toys here before Sunday morning."

Children also receive underwear, winter hats, scarves and mittens, boots, school supplies and a hot meal at the party.

Anyone wishing to donate to the party can drop off money or new toys for boys or girls ages 5 through 10 at the Grant Township building at 26725 W. Molidor Road, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., or call Starostovic at (847) 740-2233.