Toys for children of military families

The La Mesa Chamber of Commerce has launched a new holiday toy collection effort to assist children of military families living in La Mesa. The public is invited to donate new, unwrapped toys appropriate for children ages 2 to 13 at a reception starting at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 6, at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, 5500 Grossmont Center Dr., in the Grossmont Center mall, La Mesa. Admission to the reception is free for Chamber members and $10 per person for non-members. Refreshments at the reception will include heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks sponsored by the Riviera Supper Club.

In addition, the Chamber is collecting monetary donations for gift certificates for holiday meals for military families. According to Mary England, Chamber president/CEO, Lincoln Military Housing is assisting with the distribution of toys and gift certificates. She said gift certificates will be purchased from Smart & Final Extra Warehouse & Market. England also said Jerry Lester, a longtime community supporter, initiated this new holiday project. Monetary donations for gift certificates also can be made at the Dec. 6 reception. Event reservations may be made via the chamber website, www.lamesachamber.com, or by sending an e-mail, rsvp@lamesachamber.com, or by calling the Chamber Office (619) 465-7700, ext. #2.

“The La Mesa Chamber is honored to be a part of this endeavor and making a difference in the lives of these children and families who do so much for our country,” England said.

The La Mesa Chamber is organizing two other holiday projects, including holiday gift baskets for La Mesa senior citizens and a clothing drive of socks, t-shirts, shoes and underwear for local children in need as identified by the La Mesa Community Welfare Association and several La Mesa-Spring Valley School District elementary schools.