Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Over 1,000 children received gifts at this year’s Doit From the Heart Toy Drive. This year’s toy drive was held at the Salvation Army located at 1600 East Clearlake Avenue.
No registration, income amount, or qualifying information was required. The only requirement was that parents bring their children, so they could pick their gifts. Each child was allowed to pick 5 toys. While families were waiting they were given food thanks to a partnership with Chick-fil-A. Scheels also donated coats, hats, and gloves.
Springfield Police Officer Lamar Moore, the founder and CEO of the non-profit Doit From the Heart, shared that no family was turned away.
When asked about why he decided to start the toy drive, Moore explained that he grew up in poverty in Chicago and to him seeking to make a difference and impact on the lives of disadvantaged children is a no-brainer.
Moore also wanted to thank the community for putting their trust in him. Every monetary donation was matched, and every donation was used to purchase toys for the children. Moore is also grateful for the support the Springfield community has given him. The hope is that the event will continue to grow and more children will be given toys in years to come.
If you are interested in donating for next year’s toy drive, toys can be taken to the Salvation Army and monetary donations can be made here.
