Tampa Charity Hosts Toy Drive

Helping Hand Worldwide Inc., a Tampa-based charity, is partnering with The Haitian Association Foundation of Tampa Bay Inc. for the second annual Operation Christmas Box for Orphans, a toy drive that will benefit needy children in the Tampa area and Haiti.

The event will take place Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the University Area Community Center, 14013 N. 22nd St. in Tampa.

There will be a host of family friendly activities including food, vendors, entertainment, activities for kids, pictures with Santa, a silent auction, contests and prizes. In lieu of tickets Helping Hand Worldwide is asking that guests bring an unwrapped toy or donation for entry into the event. Other accepted donations will include school supplies, hygiene products, shoes and donations of money.

Haiti is a country with known financial instability, which was only magnified by a catastrophic earthquake, which happened on Jan. 12, 2010. According to Helping Hand Worldwide, it’s mission is to ensure that Haiti's children in Tampa Bay and in Haiti receive the medical, mental, physical and educational care needed to recover.

Vendors and sponsors are still needed for this event. Those interested should email Siana Brennick at siana@thedishpr.com or call here at 951-972-2269.