Denver Indian Center Faces Donation Shortfall Ahead of Annual Toy Giveaway
Denver, CO — The Denver Indian Center, a vital resource for the Native American community, is preparing for its annual toy giveaway this Saturday, but this year presents unusual challenges with a decrease in donations. For over a decade, the center has organized this cherished event to ensure that underprivileged children receive gifts during the holiday season.
"This event is important because there are kids who can’t get presents," said Dee Salas, a dedicated volunteer. “It’s a really good place for them to get toys.”
Rick Waters, co-executive director of the center, emphasized the event’s importance in fulfilling their mission to support families facing financial hardships. "We try to supplement those families that are having a little bit harder time providing for their children," he noted. However, the center has seen a troubling decrease in toy donations—previously abundant, the giveaway room is sparsely filled this year.
According to David Wright, grants manager at the center, while donations have dipped, the need has drastically increased. "We were helping about 150 families. Now, we’re over 400 needing assistance," he said. In addition to toys, families attending the giveaway will also receive meal vouchers, free books, and children’s coats.
The toy giveaway will be held on Saturday, December 20, starting at 9:30 a.m. for the Native community and then for the broader Denver community from 10 a.m. to noon at the Denver Indian Center, located at 4407 Morrison Road. The center invites the community to contribute, urging donations of new toys to ensure that every child experiences the joy of receiving a gift this holiday season. Donations can still be made at the Denver Indian Center, and any toys collected after the event will be distributed to other organizations with similar missions.
For more information on how to help, interested individuals can contact the Denver Indian Center or visit their website.