The spirit of giving is palpable in Cuyahoga County as small businesses, professional sports teams, and community organizations team up with the Cuyahoga County Children and Family Services this holiday season. Their aim is to support foster and kinship care youth through the "Hope for the Holidays" campaign, which is gathering toys and monetary donations to spread cheer among these young members of the community.
Local sports fans have a chance to contribute at upcoming games where the Cleveland Charge and the Cleveland Monsters will host toy drives. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys or to make a donation via the DCFS Amazon list. Per Cuyahoga County's official press release, the Charge will collect toys on December 3 and December 5, while the Monsters are set for November 28, November 29, December 4, and December 6.
In tandem with sports events, McCarthy’s Downtown bar and restaurant is also stepping in to make a difference. They will be hosting a "Toys for Joy" donation event, giving patrons the opportunity to drop off new toys and donations. The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, from 2 pm to 6 pm at 1231 Main Ave., Cleveland, ensuring local residents have a weekend option to contribute to the initiative.
Another heartening effort, "Building Bikes Spreading Love," enters its 10th year of providing bikes to foster children. Donations for new bikes or funds are actively being sought at the organization's website, and the bike assembly will take place on December 7, from 2 pm to 4 pm at the Family Life Center in Chagrin Falls. The campaign asks for community support by the donation deadline on Friday, December 5, to prepare for the assembly day activities.
Those requiring further details about the campaigns or how to pitch in can reach out to the DCFS Outreach Team at 216-881-4150 or via email at [email protected]. This time of year often highlights the generosity and collaborative spirit within communities, and Cuyahoga County stands as a testament to that with its robust support network rallying for the children in its charge.
