'CHiPs For Kids' Toy Drive Underway In California: 2021

CALIFORNIA — All California Highway Patrol offices will participate in the agency's annual toy drive, "CHiPs for Kids," this year to help thousands of underprivileged children have a happier holiday.

You can drop off new unwrapped toys at any local CHP office or at Walgreens stores in California until Dec. 20. All toys collected will go to children who live within the area, according to Officer Gilberto Jacobo of San Diego, a spokesperson for the CHP.

The CHiPs for Kids toy drive began about 33 years ago in Los Angeles. At that time, a small group of officers wanted to help less-fortunate children living in the neighborhoods they served.

"During the years, the CHiPs for Kids Program has had a positive impact on children hospitalized during the holidays and has brought a brighter holiday season for children in need," Jacobo said.

Officers usually interact with the public over criminal offenses, traffic violations or traffic collisions.

"The CHiPs for Kids Program allows officers to meet the public and build positive relationships with children," Jacobo added.

The program also helps educate the community about the dangers of drinking and driving and distracted driving and promotes bicycle and pedestrian safety, among other things.

"The popular program has grown tremendously," CHP Information Officer Mike Lassig said. "Now, every CHP office in the state participates in helping children in their communities through this program."

The program relies on the help of supporters in communities served by the CHP, who distribute toys to those in most need.

CHiPs for Kids toy collection runs through Dec. 20. Donated toys will be wrapped, and uniformed CHP officers will distribute them a week before Christmas.