Loveland Initiative is proud once again to host the 12th Annual Christmas Toy Store. Christmas is a wonderful time of the year, especially for children. With their annual Toy Store, they make it just as wonderful for low-income parents.

The Toy Store was created to help families who could not afford toys and gifts. Purchasing toys and gifts at a discount helps parents feel that they are contributing to their child’s Christmas while enabling the parents to choose items based on their child’s interests and needs.

Loveland Initiative is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in Loveland. For 8 years now, they have been able to award 12 $1500 scholarships. Education is one way they can empower people to break the cycle of poverty.

Approximately 200+ children from low-income families in the Loveland area will receive gifts via the Toy Store. Each family will sign up for a specific shopping slot and they will be able to purchase approximately 3-5 gifts per child. Parents & Grandparents come into a store setting with tables marked by price to purchase items for $0.50 to $5 per gift. The 12th Annual Christmas Toy Store will be held at the Loveland Fireman’s VFW Hall 227 East Loveland Avenue on Friday, December 18 2009. We will be accepting donations of NEW UNWRAPPED toys and gifts for children, preteens and teens.

Drop off donated toys and gifts at the Loveland Fireman’s Association VFW Hall 227 East Loveland Avenue (½ mile from Loveland Symmes Fire Department) every Friday 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:30pm to 8:30pm from November 6 through December 11. Last minute items may also be dropped off Wednesday, December 16 2:00pm-7:00pm, Thursday, December 17 2:00pm-7:00pm, and Friday, December 18 12:00pm-9:00pm. Loveland Initiative can also make arrangements to pick up gifts. In addition to gifts, they need volunteers for pick-up, wrapping, displays and transportation. Please feel free to call (513) 677-1057 or e-mail lovelandinitiative@yahoo.com with any questions or concerns.