Donations Sought For Toy Run

Christmas is quickly approaching but there are kids in the county who may go without toys and food.

Tony Ballard, of Avon Park, does not want that to happen.

The ninth annual Lake Placid Food and Toy Run is going to be held Dec. 13.

Although it's a biker-driven toy drive, everyone on two or four wheels is invited to tag along to make a needy child's Christmas more special.

Ballard said early donations are way off from previous toy and food runs.

"I know this year is going to be tough - there's more need - and the prospect of getting as many contributions as in the past is bleak," said Ballard. "But there's definitely more need.

"The pastors know who needs - and we're getting more calls every year for the needy."

Ballard, who is going to be "Santa in Leathers," is taking food and toy donations until Dec. 13.

The bike run will start at The First Christian Church, behind the Avon Park McDonald's, at 11 a.m.

It will end at Action Revival Family Worship Center, 139 Williams St., Lake Placid, where the toys will be directly given to the kids.

The event started in 2000, with less than two dozen bikers.

Turnout exceeded 200 participants last year and more than 100 children received toys during the eight annual run.

For information on how to donate, or specifics on the run, call Tony Ballard at 863-452-8570.

Do you have a Christmas toy drive?

Highlands Today is compiling a list of Christmas toy drives.

To have your information included, e-mail highlandstoday@highlandstoday.com.