Sequim Community Aid is accepting donations of toys for its Toys for Sequim Kids giveaway. The nonprofit, which provides year-round help with utility and rent for those in need, will distribute toy donations at the Sequim Prairie Grange at 290 Macleay Road from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14. Items are for children from young babies to eighth-graders.

How to give

You can deliver toys to be given at the Fifth Avenue fire station on weekdays, at Grocery Outlet (1045 W. Washington St.), Co-op Farm &Garden (216 E. Washington St.), Sequim Gym (145 E. Washington St.) and QFC (990 E. Washington St.). Christmas trees with slips of paper requesting specific toys can be selected and the toys can be dropped off at these stores through Dec. 12.

Blanket-throw drive

Blankets and throws also will be given at the event above. Boy Scout Troop 1103 will host a blanket-throw drive from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 3 at the Grocery Outlet. Boy Scout Troop 90 will host another blanket drive from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 10 at the Grocery Outlet.

Blue Sky Realty and other participating realtors also will collect throws and toys through Dec. 12.

Distribution

Parents must show proof of Sequim school district residence, sign their names and tell the ages and gender of their children. An “elf” or volunteer will take the parent to the tables that have the gifts for the children and help select them. Each child usually receives a stuffed animal plus two toys — one a stocking stuffer and the other a little more expensive — and also may receive an age-appropriate game and an item of clothing. Each family will receive a throw or a blanket.

A bicycle per family is available while they last. Last year, Sequim Community Aid served more than 400 youths.

Needing more elves

Sequim Community Aid has a need for volunteers to serve as elves.

While many volunteers repeat as elves from year to year, the group loses a few helpers each year.

“It’s best to do it while you can and enjoy working in a giving environment,” program organizers say.

“This gives Christmas to all of those involved in programs like Toys for Sequim Kids.”

For more

Call Sequim Community Aid at 681-3731 for assistance.

Monetary donations can be mailed to Sequim Community Aid, P.O. Box 1591, Sequim, WA 98382. On checks, write “Toys” on the memo line if the donation is for that purpose.

To donate for general year-round utility assistance, leave the memo line blank.

This program is co-chaired by Jim Davis and Kathy Suta for Sequim Community Aid.