Chicago

Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade Desperately Seeks Donations After Weather Strands Riders

The event was held on Dec. 2, but inclement weather left many unable to make the journey and the group is now in desperate need of thousands of unwrapped toys

A Chicago-area group is in desperate need of help as it prepares to make the holidays brighter for children in need.

Each year, thousands of bikers from across the country make their way to Chicago with a Christmas gift for a local kid in need. The event was held on Dec. 2, but inclement weather left many unable to make the journey and the group is now in desperate need of thousands of unwrapped toys to deliver to kids in need by Christmas Eve. 

“We’ve got 15 days here,” said Tom Dertz, vice president of Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade. “If anyone can help us out we’d appreciate it. We really need some help.”

The letters from families in need of help are stacked high, but the group said hundreds of families will be left disappointed if they don't receive donations in the coming days. Shelters, halfway houses, churches, schools and more depend on the toys from the parade, officials said. 

Tom Dertz said he’s now counting on the generosity of Chicagoans in the coming days to keep the event going.

“If you could do anything, we’d really appreciate it,” he said.

For a list of places to donate, click here

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