With the holiday season in full affect Grambling State University’s radio station, KGRM, is hosting a toy drive for families who need assistance providing toys this Christmas.
Since its birth in 1999 the Season of Giving Campaign has been geared to bring holiday cheer to families who might not otherwise be able to give their children toys.
“In order to make sure that every child receives a little Christmas,” said Valena Lane, campaign coordinator. “We want to make sure that every person who applies for this program receives a toy.”
In order for recipients to be eligible for a gift, they must first go through an application process in which applicants are screened in reference to their family and resources.
The 14-year campaign began when Joyce Evans, general manager of KGRM suggested that all university media outlets provide a service to the community. Since, KGRM has served thousands and plan to do the same this year.
“It should be quite a turnout, its been on a steady increase for the last five or six years,” said William J. Rutledge, campaign coordinator.
With an influx of new people attending every year, both Lane and Rutledge express the importance of giving.
“Its so important to give because it’s the basis of our focus,” said Lane. “From the station to the staff to the donors, it’s all about giving.”
Rutledge said this is the time of year where parents have to decide whether to purchase gifts or pay for food.
“This is a need for low-income families. We are able to give them a decent Christmas plus food on a plate, said Rutledge.
Donations will be accepted until December 10 in KGRM, located on the second floor of the Washington-Johnson Complex from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m.