The holiday season is upon the community, and with that comes the season for giving back. Many families in Steele County are not able to afford presents this holiday season. Toys for Tots of Steele County work to provide a jolly Christmas for those families with children. The purpose of the non-profit is to distribute new and unwrapped toys to Steele County’s less fortunate children at Christmas. Parents or guardians can complete an application that is processed through the Steele County Human Services. A letter will then be sent to the parent or guardian from Toys for Tots, assigning them a date and time to come shop in their store.

All donations to this organization such as money, gift cards and toys will be used for purchasing presents. All donations stay local by helping the children in Steele County. All children who receive from Toys for Tots must attend a school or be homeschooled. Toys for Tots has been helping kids in Steele county for 37 years. Don Overlie, a volunteer with the organization, said, “We want to bring a Christmas to every child.” The setup and distribution of all gifts and donations are set up at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna. There are also public donation spots throughout the county.

The OHS Student Council chooses a different foundation to support the OHS Cash Drive every year. When asked why Toys for Tots was chosen this year, senior student council member Elise Sande said, “Because it’s a good cause and it’s very popular in Owatonna.” Students and teachers can get involved by participating in the activities at all lunches during the week of Dec. 16 through Dec. 20, participating in or attending the Mangent and by raising money in classes. Student Council adviser Ms. Sandra Justice said, “Orchestra and band will compete, and whoever raises more money, I usually provide breakfast for.” All the money raised from the OHS Cash Drive goes directly to Toys for Tots.

To get involved with volunteering, contact Mary Higgins, the Steele County Toys for Tots volunteer coordinator, at 507-363-6911 or email her at [email protected].