West Deer Police to hold 25th annual toy drive for families in need

West Deer Township is ringing in the holiday cheer with its 25th annual toy drive.

Former West Deer Police Chief Jon Lape started the drive to help families experiencing hardship during the holiday season. This year will be first time Lape is not leading it after his retirement in June. The baton will be passed on to Police Chief Robert Loper, who said he looks forward to continuing the generous tradition.

“It has really grown to something special,” he said.

The drive targets Deer Lakes School District students from ages 1 to 14, living in West Deer, East Deer and Frazer. Registration is open for families to sign up to receive toys. The deadline is Dec. 6.

Last week, letters of interest were sent to families who have previously signed up for the program. Recommendations from Deer Lakes are also sent to the department to identify families in need. Loper said families can make requests for specific toys.

“This takes a huge burden off families financially because we are able to provide gifts for families struggling,” he said.

Last year, 45 families signed up for the program, Loper said. In addition to gifts, a $40 shoe voucher for Shoe Sensation in Lower Burrell is given to one family and a gift card to a local grocery store is given to another. Retired Deer Lakes teachers volunteer their time to wrap an estimated 1,000 gifts every year.

Loper said each families receives 8 to 10 gifts for kids. The leftover gifts are displayed on tables in the municipal building for families to pick and choose.

Cub Scout Pack 965 will visit various residences in West Deer on Saturday to drop off bags and letters informing residents about the drive and requesting toy donations. Scouts will return to pick up the bags and toy donations Nov. 20. Police are asking that the toys be new.

Toys also can be dropped off at the municipal building Mondays through Fridays between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. at 109 East Union Road. The dropoff deadline is Dec. 8.

Residents looking to send monetary donations can send checks to West Deer Township Police Special Programs at 109 East Union Road, Cheswick, PA 15024. The funds will be used to purchase additional toys, winter clothing, shoes and wrapping paper.

The department received almost $12,000 in monetary donations last year, Loper said.

Loper said gifts will be distributed to families Dec. 14.

For more information or any questions, contact the police department at toysforchildren@westdeertownship.com or call 724-265-1100.