Toy drive organizers say collection points are low

Toys are needed for this year’s “Spark of Love” drive, organizers say, as many collection points are running low. Drop-offs need to be made early this year as there is limited space to store the toys. Donations after Dec. 18 most likely won’t make it to children until next year’s holiday season.

Donors are asked to drop off unwrapped, new toys or sports equipment at fire stations in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, the Newport Beach lifeguard headquarters at the base of Newport Pier and CVS stores.

Last year the drive collected and distributed more than 300,000 toys to children in Orange County.

For more information on the drop-off specifications and locations call: Brenda Emrick of the Costa Mesa Fire Department at (714) 327-7406, or Jennifer Schulz of the Newport Beach Fire Department at (949) 644-3110.

Monetary donations can also be made by contacting St. Vincent de Paul at (714) 288-5600.

— Kelly Strodl