PORT TOWNSEND — Denice Irish sees the need firsthand from her desk at the Department of Social and Health Services.
The welfare line, not far from her desk in the Sheridan Street office, grows longer with people out of work as the holiday season approaches.
Families without funds leave a void for children at Christmas-time — a void that can be fulfilled by the joy of receiving a new toy or gift from a generous stranger.
“In the lobby, I see everybody that comes and goes,” said Irish, explaining why she started the office’s campaign to collect and distribute toys to needy kids.
“And I see it from that perspective.”
The effort began five years ago with the help of the Kiwanis Club and the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys For Tots program. Then Bank of America hopped on Santa’s sleigh.
“It just got kind of huge really fast,” Irish said.
The program helped about 40 children the first year.
Today, it serves about 700 children in needy families around Jefferson County.
Last year, the hallways at DSHS were lined with toys. County residents volunteered their time to bag and deliver the toys.
Irish, who had put out a call for help, now has a group of volunteers who love children and want to help during the holidays.
Also volunteering their time to help the program run smoothly this year are Janet Emery of the American Legion, Melody Alexander and Karoline Anderson at Olympic Community Action Programs, and Linda McKenzie, who will conduct training to help Irish.
Needs will be met
Based on the program’s increasing public support, Irish believes needs will be met again this year.
The agency is now accepting toys at the desk of DSHS, 915 Sheridan St., Suite 201 Port Townsend.
To get there, park behind the building, which is across Sheridan Street from Jefferson Healthcare hospital, come in through the door and turn to the right.
“I think there will be at least as much of the need we had last year,” Irish said.
Board games, books, infant and teen items are always in short supply and big demand, Irish said, adding that such donations are encouraged.
Those needing toys can apply with Irish at DSHS.
She said the Toys for Tots shipment was expected this week.
A day will be chosen during the week of Dec. 14 to Dec. 18 for toys to be picked up by families at the American Legion Post 26 hall, 209 Monroe St. in downtown Port Townsend.
Those who want to volunteer to bag the toys can phone Irish at 360-379-4339.
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Port Townsend-Jefferson County Editor Jeff Chew can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at jeff.chew@peninsuladailynews.com.