Jeffco Kids Gift Program Goes Virtual For 1st Time In 48 Years

LAKEWOOD, CO — One of Jefferson County's largest nonprofits, The Action Center, has organized a toy drive that's going virtual for the first time in 48 years.

Since 1971, the annual Holiday Gift Program has been hosted in the county, but this year, parents won't be able to shop for free gifts — instead they've filled out a form with their child’s interests and details, which will be used to create grab bags that are customized for each kid, organizers said.

The parents will then receive an appointment time to come and pick up their gifts, which will be delivered by a team of elves to vehicles "in a safe and socially distanced way," organizers said.

The program aims to deliver presents to more than 2,000 children in need.

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“This year, perhaps more than ever, we know that families are facing unprecedented challenges,” said John Covert, The Action Center's director of development.

“Nearly 40 percent of Coloradans have experienced a drop in income since COVID-19 began; for many this means choosing between gifts or basic necessities like food, utilities, or rent. Our Holiday Gift Programs can help alleviate some of this financial pressure while making sure children in need can have a magical holiday,” Covert said.

The Action Center is still in need of new, unwrapped toys for the Holiday Gift Program, organizers said. Some of the most requested items include:

• LOL Dolls
• Scooters and helmets
• Legos and Mega Blocks
• Character toys (Frozen, Paw Patrol, PJ Masks, Marvel)
• Arts and crafts kits
• Headphones

All donations should be delivered to the Holiday Gift Program site at 1565 Wadsworth Blvd., in Lakewood, by Dec. 7, organizers said. The drop-off site is open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

>> More information about this event and donations can be found here.