Wellman holding toy drive

WELLMAN — Fire department staff are collecting toys and monetary donations from the community — both at the fire station and local dollar store — planning to hold a toy giveaway at the Wellman fire station before the holidays.

Fire department secretary-treasurer Tracy Owens said it was a way to thank the community for its support, though it doubles as evidence of that support.

"It’s been a rough few years, the economy’s been crazy, everything’s going on and this might be a way to give back,“ he said. ”We’re probably getting into about 400 toys. I had one family donate about $700 worth … it’s really been quite an outpouring from the community.“

Owens said he was happy to have the effort within the community.

“There’s toys for tots, there’s other stuff like that, but I don’t know if that stays as much local,” he said. “We wanted to keep it in the Wellman, Kalona, West Chester community, taking care of people.”

Owens said there were no stipulations for who could pick up toys at the giveaway, scheduled at the Wellman fire station Dec. 10 from 9-11 a.m.

“A lot of people have been in a financial strain, we’re looking for anybody that needs toys for kids,” he said. “There is really no qualifications to receive a toy or pickup some toys for the kids, it’s just whatever works best for each individual.”

The toy drive is a first for the community. Owens said he didn’t know what to expect.

“I’ll be anxious to see how the turnout is,” he said. “I’m hoping we have a great line of people waiting out there, hoping to get in line and have a nice Christmas for the kids.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com