It's time to start thinking about the holidays, and in a prolonged economic downturn, the need is always greater. Many Altadena-based groups are involved in ensuring a happy holiday for all, especially children, and here are a few that need your help right now to do it:
Altadena Ale & Wine House
The pub is holding its second annual Thanksgiving Food Drive in cooperation with the Altadena Sheriff's Station.
Looking for: nonperishable holiday food items: gravy, stuffing mix, canned yams, cranberry sauce, as well as staples like baby food, cereal, beans and rice, peanut butter and jelly, pasta and pasta sauce, or supermarket gift cards.
Bring to: Altadena Ale & Wine House, 2329 N. Fair Oaks Dr., or Altadena Sheriff's Station, through Nov. 22.
Altadena Sheriff's Station
The sheriff's station holds an annual food and toy drive to help families that are struggling. In the last couple of years, they've served about 250 families in need, and this year they are anticipating the need is much greater. As a result, they're hoping to serve as many as 350 families. Distribution will be Sat., Dec. 18, 8 AM-12 PM the Community Center,
Looking for: non-perishable foods normally associated with a big turkey dinner -- except the turkey. You can also donate cash or checks payable to Altadena Station Fund to help them purchase grocery gift cards to give families in place of a turkey. They are also looking for new, unwrapped gifts for children up to age 12.
Bring to: Altadena Sheriff's Station, 780 E. Altadena Dr., through Dec. 11.
California Highway Patrol - CHiPS for Kids
Looking for: toys for underprivileged children, which will be passed out at parks and recreation events. Also monetary donations -- please make checks out to "Mattel," which will be used to purchase toys.
Bring to: Collection bins at the Altadena CHP office, 2130 WIndsor Ave., or any Walgreens (there are two in Pasadena).
Farnsworth Park - LA County Parks & Recreation
Looking for: toys appropriate for children age 5-13 years for their annual toy giveaway. Toy drive and registration will begin Nov.29. If there are any children of those ages that would like to participate, they must register at the park office. They will receive a ticket voucher that must be presented the day of the event, Sat. Dec. 18 from noon-5 PM.
Bring to: Drop-off boxes in the Davies Building at Farnsworth Park. For more information, call 626-798-6335.
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