Application Deadline Nearing For Enfield Toys for Joy Program

ENFIELD, CT — The challenges faced by the coronavirus pandemic have extended into an annual holiday toy drive conducted by the Enfield Police Department to benefit local families experiencing financial hardship.

The Toys for Tots program, a staple of the holiday season in Enfield for over 60 years, collects new, unwrapped toys for distribution to needy families. Officer Paul Dubiel, one of the program coordinators, said this year's drive is currently short of toys for ages 6 to 8, boys and girls.

"2020 was and continues to be a very challenging year, for a lot of families," Dubiel said. "COVID-19, business shutdowns and differing family economic situations will make this Christmas really tough for the Toys for Joy Program. The Toys for Joy committee is expecting far more applications than last year, and we want to be able to help as many families as we can. This year, we are asking you for new toys or monetary donations from now until Christmas. Last year, the response was wonderful. Enfield has come together in Christmases past to help members of the community in such tough times."

Toys may be dropped off at the Enfield Police Department, 293 Elm St. Monetary donations may be sent to the Enfield Police Department, 293 Elm St., Enfield, CT 06082. Checks may be made out to "Toys for Joy."

Applications from families in need are being accepted through Dec. 14. Enfield residents can fill out an application in the Enfield Police Department lobby.

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