Now in its 34th year under the direction of Eloy Sanchez, Coordinator of the Dinner Hour Ministry, all eyes and smiles were on the fabulous Toy Give-A-Way last Saturday at the Immaculate Conception Church
Hundreds of kids from Colton, along with their parents, came to line up early in order to get their first choice of a new Christmas toy, offered by the Dinner Hour Ministry. Full of excitement and anticipation, the kids had to wait past the 1:00pm starting time to hear the announcements and enjoy the official ceremonial program.
After the welcome, the national anthem was performed by Council Member Dr.G on the trumpet, followed by speeches by Assembly Member Eloise Reyes-Gomez and Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. To complete the program the youth group presented an enactment of “Las Posadas”, and then as the toy Give-A-Way began, the rest of the afternoon was filled with music by Jose Pacheco y Los Diamantes.
“This event went very well,” reflected Sanchez, who added, “We were better organized this year, and the flow of people went smooth.” One of the principle volunteers, Sandra Martinez, added, “The organization was very good, and you could see in the kids faces, that they were very happy.”
As the ceremonial program unfolded, mention was given to the many volunteers, leadership staff including Pete Zavala and Doug Blinkinsop, all of the individuals and organizations who donated toys for the event and of course our many sponsors including; Chino Valley Ranchers, Eloise Gomez-Reyes, Joe Baca Jr., James and Theresa Ramos, Lenny LaRocco, Ecology Auto Parts, Marlene Stewart, San Rail Fabricators, Copart, Dr.G, Frank Garcia, Dr Samuel and Barbara Boulevard, Jeff and Janet Conley, Sombrero Market, and Christ of the Redeemer Church.
In addition, special recognition was given to Pino Espudo for his dedication and many years of service given to the Dinner Hour Ministry. Pino has been the chief assistant to the leadership team, and has volunteered his time and efforts to help wherever needed. Also, Sandra Martinez was given special mention for her many hours of hard work in preparation of this well-organized event.
The Dinner Hour program has evolved over the years, and in addition to the dinners and weekly food distribution, the Annual Christmas Toy Give-A-Way has been a catalyst for community engagement, good-will, and a tremendous blessing for the children of Colton. “We were ready, and the kids were very happy to receive their Christmas toys,” commented Pete Zavala, one of the key members of the leadership team.
According to Sanchez, over 800 kids attended the event and over 1,500 toys were given out, all age specific. With the strong support of sponsors the Dinner Hour Ministry was able to collect approximately $9,000, which was plenty to purchase the toys locally and leave a little cash to start the program again next year. “This financial support has been a real blessing,” reflected Sanchez.
The City of Colton is fortunate to have this church outreach for the benefit of residents in our community, especially during the holidays. The Toy Drive Give-Away is a great event and benefits many children. For more information about the Dinner Hour program, the Children’s Toy Drive Give-Away, or donating to the Toy Drive, please contact Eloy Sanchez @ 909-520-1600.
For more information about CITY TALK, various community groups, Colton history, the trash clean-up, the G-Team, prayer list, history briefs, Veteran Spotlight, Church Spotlight, Business Spotlight, U.S. “Flag Watch,” neighborhood meetings, community projects and events, or the online live-stream programs, text/call Dr. G @ 213-3730. Questions and comments are always welcome.