Courtesy photo.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Staff members of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and officers from the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department gave away almost 500 toys on Thursday at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village.
Toys were distributed to 120 young scholars (and their siblings) who participated in last summer’s “Find My Genius” YMCA program. In addition, each family received a $100 VISA debit card donated by the Lost Hills Sheriff Foundation. Families stayed in their cars while YMCA volunteers and sheriff officers handed out toys.
Find My Genius is a five-week summer program for elementary school children entering first through fifth grades. This achievement-gap and summer camp program provides children academic and enrichment activities along with summer camp fun.
Toys were donated by community members and businesses and collected in front of Target by the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department last week.
“It was wonderful to see the smiles on the children’s faces,” says Megan Glynn, the Y’s Chief Development Officer. “It’s been a difficult year financially for many of these children’s families. Spreading holiday cheer during this difficult time was very meaningful.”
“We are so grateful to all who donated in support of the Toy Drive,” said Deputy Brian Knott. “We are especially thankful to Target, Staples and all who donated on behalf of the Lost Hills Community Impact Team.”