The Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority, Kent Firefighters Local 1747, and the Kent Firefighters Foundation are once again sponsoring and supporting the Toys for Joy program.

Toys for Joy is an annual event where new, unwrapped toys are collected, sorted, wrapped, and delivered to the Kent and Covington Food Banks for distribution to needy families in our community.

Non-perishable food and monetary donations will also be accepted.

Economically, 2013 has seen improvements over previous years, but there are still many in need. Some families have to dedicate their money to the basics in order to survive and do not have the finances to buy gifts during the holidays. The Toys for Joy program was created to help these local families.

Toy wrapping parties are scheduled for 6 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 18 and are open to the public.

Last year the public wrapped over 5,500 gifts.

Toys can be dropped off at the Lake Meridian Fire Station, No. 75, located at 15635 S.E. 272 St. (wrapping party location), and at Fire Station No. 78 at 17820 S.E. 256 St. in Covington.

The Toys for Joy program can only exist with the generous donations of local residents and businesses. Over the years, that generosity has been tremendous. This year we are hoping for everyone’s continued support.

The program organizers would like to issue a special thank you to USF Reddaway for their support and donation of a semi-truck to help store and transport the toys, as well as Door to Door Storage of Kent.

For further information on the Toys for Joy program and to get involved in a wrapping party, please call the Toys for Joy Hotline at 253-856-4485.