VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Thirteenth Annual Holiday Program

Orange County, NC- Orange County Department of Social Services (DSS) is preparing for the thirteenth annual holiday program, The Orange County Toy Chest, in partnership with Toys for Tots on December 19th and 20th. This program is an annual event that supplies low-income children in Orange County with holiday gifts. To promote safety during the current pandemic, this year’s event will be administered as a drive-thru process.

With the help of numerous community partners and local donors, thousands of gifts were provided to over 2700 children last year. Due to the negative impact of COVID, even more families are in need and a drastic decrease in volunteer assistance has occurred. DSS would love to continue the momentum in gift-giving efforts and, in order to do so, your time and help is needed!

As the event is steadily approaching, volunteers are needed for the following roles:

·       Parking Helpers (direct cars for parking)

·       Parent Check-in (bilingual volunteers needed)

·       Runners (bring food and toys to vehicles)

·       Food Helpers (load food into carts)

Requirements:

·       Must be at least 15 years old, with a parent/ guardian if under the age of 18

·       2 hour volunteer commitment minimum

·       Wear a mask for the entire shift

As a safety precaution, everyone will be required to wear a mask for the entire shift. Please bring a mask; however, if you do not have one, a mask will be provided.

Bilingual volunteers are especially needed. Helpers are also significantly needed for Saturday afternoon and evening as well as Sunday.

Parents will be required to stay inside of their vehicles for toy pick up, and volunteers should plan to be outside for their entire shift.  Please ensure to dress appropriately for the weather.

Successful operation of the holiday program is heavily dependent on volunteerism. With your help, DSS can once again help Santa visit all Orange County children this year. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Bobbie Deese, Toy Chest Volunteer Coordinator, at either bdeese@orangecountync.gov or (919) 245-2819.

If you cannot volunteer this year, please consider donating newly purchased, unwrapped toys. Donations are especially needed for children ages 6-12. If you would like to make an online monetary donation, you can do so from the comfort of your own home as well. To receive additional information on how to donate items or money, please contact the Holiday Hotline at (919) 245-2931 or holidayprogram@orangecountync.gov.

Have a Happy Holiday and help to ensure your Orange County neighbors do too!