Hanukkah Toy Drive: Benefitting TOYS for TOTS
This time of year is traditionally a time of giving and a time of reflection. With holidays such as Thanksgiving and Hanukkah, we like to take the time to think about our personal situations: to appreciate what we have, and to think about what we can do to help those who don’t have as much. The act of giving, whether in the form of a gift or a favor, is a perfect way to benefit everyone this season. Giving helps others by allowing them a chance to celebrate the holidays, and it makes us feel good knowing we have contributed to someone’s happiness. Celebrating with others is better than celebrating by ourselves; the more the merrier!
It feels a bit different thinking about Hanukkah in November, but with time moving so quickly, Hanukkah will be here before we know it. There are so many parts of the Festival of Lights that we’re already looking forward to- lighting the Hanukkiah, noshing on some sweet sufganiyot or savory latkes, and of course opening presents! Although giving and receiving presents may seem like a given to many of us, it isn’t necessarily the case for everyone. We are proud to announce that Camp Chi is launching a Toy Drive Benefitting TOYS for TOTs!
Throughout November, families can drop off toys and gifts at various JCC Chicago locations including Elaine Frank Apachi Day Camp, ‘Z’ Frank Apachi Day Camp, Florence Heller JCC in Lakeview, and Bernard Weinger JCC in Northbrook. There will be labeled bins at each location where the gifts (that are not wrapped) can be dropped off. All the gifts will be donated to TOYS for TOTs, a charity that provides presents to less fortunate children around the holidays.
But wait there’s more! We’re also hosting and participating in two live events during the actual holiday of Hanukkah. Join us on November 29th for 2nd Night, 2nd Light at the Bernard Weinger JCC from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Not only can you drop off presents to donate at this event, but we’ll also celebrate the Festival of Lights with hot cocoa, special treats, and candle lighting. We’re excited to be participating at JCC Chicago’s 8th Night 8th Light event on December 5th at Gallagher Way outside Wrigley Field. At this special event, you can again drop off donations, and enjoy ice skating, DJ entertainment, and candle lighting.
The Camp Chi Family always comes through to help the community, and we know there will be lots of happy kids out there with the help of your gifts. Happy (early) Hanukkah!