Beginning today and running until Dec. 2, Student Association-sponsored clubs will be accepting toys to be donated to charity this holiday season.
SA Community Service Director Lisa Galus created the Toy Drive three years ago as a way to benefit orphans within the Buffalo community.
"All toys are given to the United Way in which they are distributed to local organizations who are need of them," Galus said. "These toys are given to children without parents."
According to Galus, the Toy Drive is aimed at finding toys for children between the ages of eight and 12. Although donations for all age groups are greatly appreciated, Galus said the local organizations receiving the toys said that most orphans within the Buffalo community are within this age bracket.
"We are expecting a great response since there was an overwhelming response to the Food and Clothing Drive," Galus said. "We have faith in our clubs, and we know that they will come through as always. SA is very proud of their clubs and their involvement within the Buffalo community."
SA Vice President Jennifer Brace said SA would accept all types of toys, as long as they do not promote violence, such as toy weapons. The toys, which can be dropped off at the SA office in 350 Student Union, must be new and unwrapped.
Galus said this act of kindness would benefit UB students who participate in the drive, as well as needy children.
"It's a great way to get clubs involved, and it is definitely something I believe in," Galus said. "As a child, I always donated toys in my school."
Clubs and organizations that donated the most toys - in terms of monetary value - will receive prizes. The club that raises the most money will receive $300, with the second-place club winning $100 and the third-place club winning $50.
"We hope we will get a mass contribution, involve clubs with community service, and make many children happy," said Galus.
