'CHiPs For Kids' Toy Drive Underway In San Juan Capistrano: 2021

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — Orange County area California Highway Patrol offices are participating in their annual toy drive "CHiPs For Kids."

You can drop off new, unwrapped toys at any CHP office or Walgreens store until Dec. 20. All of the toys collected will go to children who live within the area, they said.

The closest CHP offices to San Juan Capistrano are in Irvine, at 6681 Marine Way, or in San Juan Capistrano, at 32951 Camino Capistrano.

The CHiPs for Kids toy drive began over 33 years ago in Los Angeles. At that time, a small group of dedicated officers wanted to help the less fortunate children living in the neighborhoods they served.
"During the years, the CHiPs for Kids Program has had a positive impact on children hospitalized during the holidays and has brought a brighter holiday season for children in need," CHP Officer Gilberto Jacobo says.

Most of the contact the public has with officers involves criminal offenses, traffic violations or traffic collisions.

"The CHiPs for Kids Program allows officers to meet the public and build positive relationships with children," Jacobo said.

The program also serves to educate the community about the dangers of drinking and driving, distracted driver awareness, bicycle and pedestrian safety, and more.

"The popular program has grown tremendously," CHP Information Officer Mike Lassig said. "Now, every CHP office in the state participates in helping children in their communities through this program.

With the help of compassionate supporters in the communities we serve, they distribute toys to those in most desperate need of support.

The CHiPs for Kids toy collection runs through December 20. Once donated, the toys will be wrapped and uniformed CHP officers will distribute the donated toys one week before Christmas.

Any assistance you offer will be greatly appreciated.