For the second year in a row the annual Toys for Tots to Teens will take place at Penticton Secondary School today (Thursday) from 7 to 9 a.m.
During that time the public can drop off a new, unwrapped toy or make a donation and have a warm meal and beverage for their contribution that will go to less fortunate families in the community.
“We’re expecting to have between 800 to 1,000 people attending,” said Pen High leadership teacher and vice principal Sandra Richardson. “This benefits families in our own school and students see the importance of giving back and it opens up the school to the community in a significant way. It shows our students in a really positive light and what they are capable of.
“I think it’s a winning situation all around.”
Many of the 100 students in the leadership class were still working late into the day Wednesday getting everything set up.
“It’s starting to look like we’re putting something together,” said Richardson.
A huge cross section of the community is also helping out with the event including many businesses, service clubs, sports groups and emergency responders including the Penticton Fire Department and BC Ambulance Service.
The toy drive has bounced around over the years and when a new place was needed last year Richardson and the school stepped up to the plate.
“Pen High leadership kids for many years have been involved with Toys for Tots they have been involved in a serving capacity,” she said. “Last year in conversation with the other leadership teacher Bo Boxall we just thought it would be a natural fit and that it would be an opportunity for our students to take on a significant leadership role in the community and give back.
“This will also provide it with stability, so a consistent way to have this event in a place that is welcoming and community focused.”
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