If you look up the word "toy" in the dictionary, you'll find among the top two definitions:
- An object for children to play with
- Something of little importance; a trifle.
On Christmas Day when some of the poorest of the poor gather for a Yuletide celebration and meal at the Well in the Desert, it becomes clear that a toy, for a child who has little, is something of great significance. Maybe in the big scheme of equality and justice a toy is of little importance but to a child in need, a toy can be an oasis of joy and freedom. Things can be used to empower us and a toy to a needy child is as much a sign and symbol of hope and caring as it is something to play with.
You might ask how a piece of molded plastic, wood or metal that is fashioned into a doll or truck can take on such significance. If you've got a good memory of your own childhood than you have the answer to that question all ready. A brightly wrapped brand new toy brings not only a smile to a child but may ignite a spark of hope. What passes for plastic is a sign and token that someone cares . cares deeply about the potential that a little child, regardless of circumstance, represents for all of us.
Every year religious and civic organizations throughout our community are enlisted to provide good quality, new un-wrapped toys for the noble purposes of bringing joy and moments of happiness to the hundreds of children in the Coachella Valley who mostly do without. Is it synergy that brings together "Barbie" and a little girl who dreams of high fashion and glamour? Is it coincidence that matches a little boy with his own tractor or truck albeit a scaled down version? The annual Toy Drive for the children of the Well in the Desert doesn't attempt to answer these philosophical questions but rather seeks to fill the needs of children who otherwise would receive very little or nothing during the holiday season.
This year you can help bring joy and happiness to the children of the Well in the Desert in at several ways. Why not consider a toy drive where you live, work or worship? Remember that we are in need of new unwrapped toys. Possibly you might enjoy going out and shopping for toys at one of the many sales retailers have during the holidays? Our volunteers will wrap them and tag them for appropriate age and gender. We also can use cash donations to purchase toys for our annual distribution. New toys can be dropped off at the Well in the Desert [insert specific information] or you can call Rev. David @ 328-3591, extension 12 and arrange to drop them off at MCC in Cathedral City.
In 2008, we anticipate the need to be great. Don't risk any child being disappointed this year. Your donation will not only bring a smile to one of our children, it will definitely bring a smile to your heart. Be blessed!
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