Burlingame nonprofit hosts annual toy drive

“We’re encouraging people to come out and give what they can, otherwise these kids might not have a gift for the holidays,” she said. “This is a fun way to be able to make an impact.”

Children from infancy to teenage years are preselected to receive gifts through Moms Against Poverty, their schools and other community organizations. Those who cannot drop off an unwrapped gift in person can participate through the Amazon Gift List or Target Registry, which feature presents like Legos, toy sets, craft kits and more.

Community of all ages is then welcome to come to the Burlingame Parks and Recreation Department from noon to 3 p.m. to wrap the gifts. There will be food, music and even a visit from Santa Claus, Sogomonian said.

“People are encouraged to come out — everyone is welcome. The more the merrier, an open call for everybody,” she said.

Moms Against Poverty puts on the toy drive with the help of the Central County Fire Department’s toy drive and public support, aiming to brighten the holiday season for children in need.

The nonprofit was founded in 2008 with the intention of addressing childhood poverty worldwide and has served children across the globe. This holiday season, Sogomonian emphasized the importance of helping children in one’s own backyard as well.

“Inspired by traveling worldwide and seeing major needs in really impoverished communities around the world, [the founders] wanted to do something for kids specifically to give them hope they do have a future,” she said. “Unfortunately, the need is just as great here at home.”