Washington Church of Christ holds toy giveaway

12/21/2011?3:35 AM

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More than 1,000 donated toys went to local families in need during Washington Church of Christ's second annual toy giveaway Saturday.

"It's just a way that we can reach out to the community and help some people with Christmas so their family can have a good holiday season," said minister David Deagel.

Church member Christopher Flickinger, who helped organize the event at the church's 700 Allison Ave. location, said the congregation expected to touch the lives of about 500 families through the program, ensuring more smiles from area children on Christmas morning.

He said within the first hour, most of the toy rooms had already been picked over, a big leap from the 250 toys given out last year.

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Current rating: "We've had exponential growth both in terms of toy inventory and community support, so this is something that we'll keep doing for years and years to come," he said.

All of the toys were donated by the congregation, of which about 75 members volunteered to greet those in attendance, hand out treats and take on the massive task of wrapping the stacks of gifts.

"We are a family ... we get together for all different functions, and we bring folks in because we just love what we do," said church secretary Patti Piatt. "It is awesome to be a part of somebody's life for just a moment."

In addition to the helping hands of church members, about 50 local businesses sponsored the giveaway, donating food, drinks and other items, which made for a rather impressive breakfast spread.

Looking beyond the presents and sweets, Flickinger explained the toy giveaway does more than just fill space under the tree.

"It puts a nice lasting impression on their heart and if they can come back and grow closer to God, so be it," he said.

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Source: http://www.observer-reporter.com/OR/Story/12-21-2011-Church-of-Christ-toy-give-a-way

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