Jefferson County Gift Program Aims To Serve Over 2,000 Children

LAKEWOOD, CO — One of Jefferson County's largest nonprofits is busy organizing a toy drive that aims to deliver presents to more than 2,000 children in need.

Since 1971, The Action Center has hosted its annual Holiday Gift Program, but this year, the toy drive will look different under COVID-19 health and safety protocols, organizers said. In previous years, families were able to shop for free gifts that met their children’s needs or interests; however, this year, parents filled out a form in November with their child’s interests and details. The Action Center will take the parents' information and put together grab bags that are customized for each child, 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.

Don’t miss the latest news updates in Colorado. Sign up for free Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

“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.