Monumental Toy Drive brings Christmas cheer to Concord families

CONCORD, CA (Dec. 10, 2022) — More than 1,800 donated gifts found their ways into the waiting arms of appreciative youngsters and their families on Dec. 10. It was part of the annual Monumental Toy Drive’s Big Event.

The distribution effort significantly out paced the 1,600 gifts handed out a year ago. The event’s success was further underscored by the help of 60 volunteers representing the Concord area faith community, including those from Sanctuary Ministries, which hosted the event at its Commerce Avenue facilities, tech support from Harvest Church, and the helping hands from members of the burned-out Christ Community Church.

Prior to the doors to the toy rooms officially swinging open, families were able to get out of rainy conditions and enjoy cookies, popcorn, cocoa, and cider, making crafts, and visit with Santa in Sanctuary’s classrooms. Parents even received a little something, one of 300 Starbucks mugs from around the world that were donated by a flight attendant in honor of her late husband.

“This was 6 months in the making,” said a smiling Adrienne Chen, the Toy Drive’ senior director, who recalled the hot days in August when no one was even thinking about Christmas.