Toys for Tigers brings Christmas joy

Wasco Toys for Tigers held its annual toy distribution event on Saturday at Grace Community Church, serving 220 families for a total of 650 children. The organization provided children ages up to age 12 with new balls, games, stuffed animals, blankets, stocking stuffers and toys.

"The event was an incredible success. We feel very blessed by the community that helped us put this together," event chairman Donna Ward said. "We couldn't do it without our partners, which this year included the Wasco Recreation and Parks District, Grace Community Church, the Wasco Rose Festival and Christmas Parade Committee, Macy's, Certis, Wasco FFA, the Miss Wasco Rose Queen and her court, and all the individuals who donated to us throughout the year."

Ward noted that Miss Wasco Rose Queen Rihanna Sanchez and her court, along with members of the Wasco FFA, were instrumental in distributing toys and assisting with cleanup after the event concluded.

Wasco Toys for Tigers was founded by community member Candy Wilson in 2002 with a mission to serve needy children in Wasco, "so they don't have to go without during Christmas time," Ward explained. "It's our way of showing love to Wasco and supporting people that need our help. We don't just do toys; we do other events throughout the year. We also do food baskets at Christmas time for Community Support Options clients, senior citizens and families."

Looking ahead to next year, Toys for Tigers plans to partner again with the Wasco Recreation and Parks District for their annual Easter Egg Hunt and, later, the Bike Rodeo. "We enjoy being a part of community events that give the children of Wasco a wonderful experience. It's what Wasco Toys for Tigers is all about," Ward said.