Lutheran Services Florida holding toy drive for SWFL children Collection sites set up in Fort Myers, Sarasota, Naples

Fort Myers, FL – Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) wants to brighten Christmas for dozens of children in Southwest Florida. The nonprofit organization dedicated to families is collecting toys at its offices in Fort Myers, Sarasota and Naples for kids who would otherwise go without this holiday season.
 
“Every child deserves something to make them feel loved and remembered at Christmastime,” said Jacquie Matthews Williams, LSF Community Outreach Coordinator. “That feeling of anticipation and hope we all get this time of year should never go unfulfilled.”
 
LSF’s goal is to bless at least 200 children with two toys each. The public is asked to donate new, unused toys appropriate for children age 9 and under. Dolls and miniature cars and trucks are OK, but items that appeal to both boys and girls, like books and puzzles, are even better.
 
Toys may be dropped off at the following locations on weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., through Dec. 17:
 

• 3661 Central Ave., Fort Myers
• 100 Wallace Ave., Suite 310, Sarasota
• 3050 Horseshoe Drive, N Building, Suite 197, Naples

 
The toys will be distributed at a Christmas Celebration sponsored by StayWell on Dec. 22 at the LSF office in Fort Myers. Children will be able to have their picture taken with Santa Claus at the event, which will also include free haircuts, music and candy. LSF will also hold celebrations for toy distribution in their Naples and Sarasota offices.
 
LSF is working with partners to arrange donations of bicycles for middle school children and gift cards for high schoolers.
 
To learn about the children who will benefit from the toy drive, call Williams at 239-217-4453 or email her at [email protected].
 
Media Contact:
Terri Durdaller, LSF Associate VP of Communications
[email protected]
813-802-8790
About Lutheran Services Florida:
Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a nonprofit transforming lives by providing ensuring safe children, strong families and vibrant communities. Founded in 1982, LSF currently touches the lives of 1 in 50 Floridians every year through various programs, including early education, youth shelters, foster care, charter schools, refugee and resettlement services, substance abuse mental health services, and adult guardianship. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, LSF has more than 60 programs throughout Florida and approximately 1,400 dedicated employees.
 
Through its refugee resettlement and immigration services, Lutheran Services Florida is privileged to be on the front lines of assisting refugees to acclimate to their new homes and creating a welcoming environment to the immigrant communities that arrive at our doorstep seeking a brighter future.