This Sunday, the annual Toy Run hosted by the ABATE Motorcycle Club, along with participants from across the community, will once again kick off the holiday season in style. Motorcycles, cars, trucks, buses, and all street-legal vehicles are welcome to join the festivities. Check-in begins from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Meadowbrook Country Club, with engines roaring and kickstands up at 12:30 p.m. The convoy will then travel to 1010 Centre Ave, Reading, PA—a tradition that has continued for over 30 years.
“Every year, the Toy Run launches our Holiday Gift Drive, and our staff and residents look forward to it with great excitement,” said Jill Troutman, Vice President of Marketing and Advancement at The Children’s Home of Reading. “The kids love watching the parade of motorcycles and cars arrive, and it’s a wonderful break from their normal routine.”
This year, The Children’s Home of Reading anticipates serving more than 4,000 children and families through its thirty-five programs. Each child can request three items valued between $25 and $30, as well as a gift card to a store of their choice—amounting to over 16,000 gifts! Who knew Santa’s workshop is right here in Reading, PA?
“Many of the children in our programs have never had the chance to buy something new for themselves,” said Dr. Vincent LaSorsa, President, and CEO of CHOR. “We serve many teens, and gift cards help them learn important skills like budgeting and saving. It is heartening to see them asking for cards to gas stations, restaurants, and places like Amazon—especially as they begin to drive and gain independence.”
“We are incredibly grateful to all the motorcycle clubs and participants, Bob Yohn and Allyson Kelly who organize and participate in this wonderful event and the Holiday Gift Drive each year,” Troutman added. “This is truly the most special and busiest time of year, but the joy these gifts bring to the children and the generosity of our community is beyond touching.”
For more information or to join the Toy Run contact Allyson at 717-679-9556.
If you or your group would like to help, make holiday wishes, come true for the children this season, contact 610-478-4266 ext. 1249 or email Katy, the volunteer Head Elf, at chor.katy@gmail.com to receive Holiday Gift Tags and ensure every child feels the warmth of a caring community.