Kapco's Kids2Kids Toy Drive returns with 25,000 toy donation goal

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GRAFTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- With over 290,000 toys raised in its first 16 years of operation, Kapco's Kids2Kids Toy Drive is looking to put up another big number of toy donations for year 17.

"So far, we've collected around 4,000 toys and counting," explained Danika Tranburg. "We hope to collect 25,000 this year, that's our goal. It's a bit big, but we're pretty sure we can conquer it."

Every year, the toy drive collects the toys with the help of area school districts, to donate them to children in need throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. Organizations benefitting from the donations include Big Brothers Big Sister of Ozaukee and Washington County, Boys & Girls Club, Camp Reunite, Jewish Family Services, Make-A-Wish, One Hope, Ronald McDonald House, Salvation Army, United Way and others.

"We're getting back to that spirit of giving and getting our community involved and getting youth and young kids involved in the area," Tranburg said. "We really just want to get back to our roots."

Those roots will be celebrated this weekend, with the Celebration of Giving event officially kicking off the toy drive and walkable lights display; different from last year's drive-thru opportunity. Families will be able to look at the lights, enjoy ice skating and other holiday fun, and if they so desire, drop off a new, unwrapped toy to help the cause.

"I don't know a single person who doesn't like Christmas," exclaimed Lainey Holmes, a junior at Port Washington High School and a member of the Kids2Kids student leadership team. "It's such a great feeling to be giving back to kids who aren't fortunate enough to have a financial situation well enough to get presents and wake up with that feeling on Christmas."

Holmes' classmates agree. They're happy to be a part of the toy collection efforts to make sure other kids can have a happy holiday.

"I grew up in Christmas and getting toys was always exciting," said Elyse Karrels. "Now, the thought of giving back is even more exciting."

"I think it's a really good way to get out in the community," echoed Bryce Stasik. "Just help out and do my part."

Times for the Celebration of Giving are 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11. The festivities will take place at 885 Badger Circle in Grafton. Following this weekend's Celebration of Giving, the walkable lights display will be available for families to enjoy every night from 5 to 8 p.m., Dec. 14-23.

If you're looking to donate, visit the Kids2Kids website by clicking here.

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