LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — "Santa D," also known as Bobby D from SOX Wake Up Crew on 96.1, is back at it again collecting toys for children in Lancaster and York counties this holiday season.
This is Santa D’s ninth year doing the Toy Challenge on the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge, but the radio station has been providing funds and gifts for Toys For Tots since 1997.
“It feels fantastic to be back again for our ninth year—it is the most wonderful time of year,” said Santa D.
Last year, the Toy Challenge broke records by collecting over 10,000 new toys and stocking stuffers and raising more than $2,700 in monetary donations. Since the Toy Challenge started, over 61,000 toys have been collected and $100,000 has been raised and provided to children in the community.
Between York and Lancaster County, the Toy Challenge provides over 34,000 children and families with gifts for the holiday season. "Santa D" said over 86,000 toys were available to those in need.
“Every year too many families struggle when it comes to providing gifts for their children,” said Santa D. “Imagine being a parent who is unable to provide gifts for their kids at Christmas. Your new, unwrapped toy donation will not only bring joy to a child but provide a message of hope for families who are struggling financially.”
This year, Santa D is asking the community to help them reach a goal of 10,500 toys and stocking stuffers by the end of the campaign.
The Toy Challenge kicked off Monday and will continue until Friday, Dec. 8. Santa D will be on the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge on Route 462. The drop-off site will also be open for donations 24 hours daily.
“Some ideas for the older kids include items like sports gear, electronics, arts and crafts/hobby kits, science kits, musical instruments, backpacks, girls' makeup kits, jewelry and starter beauty products, et cetera,” said Santa D.