Berkeley Police & Fire Team Up with Marines in Toy Drive

The Berkeley Police and Fire Departments are again partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps' "Toys for Tots" holiday drive to collect toys and distribute them to underprivileged kids in the city.

"It is expected that members of BPD will give over 3000 new toys to youth during this year’s event," according to a police department news release.

"The goal of the program is to deliver a message of hope to youngsters whose families are in need and to support each of them in becoming responsible, productive community members and future leaders."

Those who want to support the program can donate new, unwrapped toys at any Berkeley Fire Station or at the Police Department, housed in the Ronald Tsukamoto Public Safety Building at 2100 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. 

The Toys for Tots program is open to all Berkeley families who register through Eden I & R, Inc. by 5 p.m. on Dec. 14. Registrations can be made by calling 2-1-1. (The Police Department does not accept registrations.)

The Police Department listed the following eligibility requirements to receive toys:

• Applicants must verify Berkeley residency with a utility bill that contains their name and address
• Applicants must have photo identification
• Applicants must have a Client Code Number that is assigned at the time the application is made over the phone.
• Applicants must personally show up for the toy distribution – no substitutions can be accepted.

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