"The holiday season brings great joy to families, but there are still many in this area who struggle at this time of year to provide the extras that every family dreams of," said Kathryn Welch, executive vice president, Forest City Ratner Companies, owners of Westchester's Ridge Hill. "This toy drive provides an opportunity for all of us to help fulfill the wishes of local children and bring some joy to families in need." The toy drive is being coordinated with the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Westchester which is celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year and serves approximately 1,500 children annually. The club offers nationally-acclaimed mentoring and tutoring programs that increase literacy rates, school attendance and academic success of at-risk youth.
"Ridge Hill has played an important role in our community by creating events that attract families from all walks of life to its center," said Brian Skanes, executive director of Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester. "This is truly a great partnership between two organizations that care deeply about the youth of our region." The toy drive will be conducted throughout the holiday season at Ridge Hill, benefiting hundreds of children in need throughout Westchester County. The drive began Nov. 6 and continue through Sunday, Dec. 14. Donations of New, unwrapped toys appropriate for children ages 3-12. are being sought. Donations may be dropped off at the Holiday Tree in the lobby of the WESTMED building at Ridge Hill at 73 Market St., Yonkers.