Help local families with Mount Prospect Toys for Kids Program

Many Mount Prospect families can use a helping hand to provide their children a memorable holiday experience. Your donation of a toy or gift card to the Mount Prospect Toys for Kids Program can do just that.

The 23rd annual Toys for Kids program offers residents and businesses an opportunity to make the holidays brighter for hundreds of local children. Last year alone, the program assisted more than 300 children from more than 100 families.

Mount Prospect Human Services Director Julie Kane discussed the vital need for such community programs that support families in need.

"This program helps relieve financial stress for families. For some children, this is one of the few gifts they receive to open on the holiday," said Kane.

Each year, the Human Services staff reviews the financial assessments that qualify the children and families to participate in the program. Families participating in this year's program will be invited to Fire Station 14 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.

New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at any Mount Prospect fire station through Friday, Dec. 6:

• Fire Station 12, 1601 W. Golf Road

• Fire Station 13, 112 E. Northwest Hwy.

• Fire Station 14, 2000 E. Kensington Road

In addition to toys, the donation of gift cards is encouraged for older children, as the program provides gifts for children up to age 17.

"This event is enjoyed by all involved - the children, parents, firefighters and village staff," said Mount Prospect Fire Chief Brian Lambel. "It is the collaborative efforts of the community, Human Services Department and the fire department that make this event a success each year."

For information about the Toys for Kids program, visit www.mountprospect.org or call (847) 870-5660.