Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
The Groveland Police Department and Ace Hardware, 1007 West Broad Street, partnered together on Saturday, July 25th, for the 8th annual “Christmas in July Toy Drive.”
Sgt. Landis Delp manages the yearly event that includes a tropical-themed setting and a car show that can keep vintage vehicle enthusiasts busy for hours. This year’s event drew 50+ themed cars, trucks and jeeps of all kinds and varieties. Marcos Pizza and other area vendors provided yummy treats and giveaways for the well-attended event.
Sgt. Delp gives credit to the dozens of annual supporters, volunteers, city employees and sponsors that make the program a success every year. Ace Hardware not only provides outdoor space for the event but also provides a large toy drop-off stage inside the store that includes Rudolph, a sleigh and a background beach scene complete with Florida-style Christmas palms.
The program served 300+ families last year, including 1,447 children that otherwise might not have had a joyful Christmas morning complete with toys.
“We don’t just provide a variety of toys for the parents to choose from. We have an application process that allows parents to indicate what their child or children would like to have, and we make every effort to make that happen for them,” says Sgt. Delp. The program also provides a bag of toys per child, when possible, versus just one favorite.
The application process will begin in October and can be found on the City of Groveland’s website at www.Groveland-FL-Gov.
Sponsors and individual supporters who would like to help can reach Sgt. Delp at 352-429-4166 or email Landis.Delp@Groveland-FL.Gov.
