Dover Fire Toy Bank seeking donations

posted on: 11/24/2020; updated: 11/28/2020

The leaves have fallen, the weather is colder, and the days are getting shorter. That means the Dover Fire Toy Bank, in its 43rd year, is underway.

The Dover Fire Toy Bank, coordinated by current and retired members of the Dover Fire & Rescue, began helping a dozen families in the City of Dover. It has now grown to aid more than 350 families. While the holiday season often conjures up visions of Santa and toys, the Toy Bank also provides educational aids, warm clothing, and boots to many Dover children.

While Dover Fire Toy Bank welcomes games and toys donations, there is also a real need for essential items for many Dover families. Hats, jackets, boots, scarves, gloves and other clothing are needed to meet demand, along with personal hygiene items. Demand is typically highest for infants and those aged between 9-12 years old. The Dover Fire Toy Bank also appreciates donations of gift cards to area businesses, including grocery and mall stores. Don’t have time for shopping? Donate money and let the Toy Bank do the shopping for you.

If you would like a collection box for your business or organization to collect donations, call (603) 516-TOYS (8697) and leave a message. We will get you one as soon as possible.

Toy Bank volunteers are available to come to you to pick up donations, including monetary gifts. Or you can drop off new, unwrapped items at the City of Dover’s three fire stations: Central Fire Station (9-11 Broadway), South End Fire Station (25 Durham Road) or the North End Fire Station (262 Sixth St.) anytime until Christmas Eve.

Monetary contributions can be picked up or mailed to Dover Fire Toy Bank, P.O. Box 1712, Dover, NH 03821-1712. Please make checks payable to The Dover Fire Toy Bank.

Because of COVID-19, Dover Toy Bank will not be seeking volunteers to help wrap presents this season.

For more information, call (603) 516-TOYS (8697).