Jaycees, Rotary Club Donations Buy Toys for Domestic Violence Shelters

A 36-year tradition of goodwill for those in need continued this week in Brooklyn Park, thanks to a huge donation.

Dozens gathered at the Brooklyn Park Fleet Farm Wednesday morning for an annual toy shopping event.

The Northwest Area Jaycees donated $12,000 dollars, and the Rotary Club of Crystal-Robbinsdale-New Hope donated another $1,500 to help buy toys for women housed at domestic violence shelters in the metro area.

David Dumas has organized this event since 1987. He said this is the most money he and his group of volunteers have received.

The generosity helped fill a lot of shopping carts with toys.

“Well, it’s neat to help people out and especially this big a thing because that’s a lot of money and that’s a lot of toys,” said David Dumas. “And we’ve been doing it for 36 years now, so it’s been quite a time.”

David Dumas stands with two shopping carts filled with toys.

“I have so many memories waking up Christmas day and being surrounded by these great gifts and everything,” added Bailey Beckman, a volunteer. “I think being able to give that experience to people who do not necessarily have the means to do so is incredible. To give somebody that experience so that everybody has it growing up, I think it’s important.”

If there are too many toys and the shelters don’t need all of them for Christmas, they save the toys to use for birthday presents during the year.

Related: $10,500 Worth of Toys Going to Domestic Violence Shelters

Brooklyn Park