Families for a Cure thanks community for successful toy drive

Through the outstanding generosity from its friends and supporters, as well as the central Ohio business community, Families for a Cure (FFAC) raised more than $10,000 in toys and gift cards following its annual “Breakfast with Santa” toy drive.

For several years, Families for a Cure has invited members of the community to donate a toy and help make the holidays a little better for children fighting serious illnesses and their families. This year’s event was held at Ten Pin Alley in Hilliard where supporters received a pancake breakfast and a photo with Santa for making a donation.

According to Pat Puhl, Director and Founder of Families for a Cure, more than 600 toys and cash donations will be used to support families and children at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio, Dots Tots, Santa's Secret Helpers, NC4K, and Nationwide Children's Hospital during the holiday season.

“It’s inspiring to see how the community comes together to support our toy drive and help us to make the holidays a little better for a family dealing with a serious illness,” Puhl said. “While we appreciate how our supporters continue to give, we couldn’t do all that we do without the help of the business community as well as the local high school students who give their time to help throughout the event.”

The FFAC board would also like to express its appreciation to the central Ohio Walmart stores for donating $1,800 in gift cards, Ten-Pin Alley for hosting the event and providing breakfast, the student volunteers from Hilliard Davidson High School’s Interact Club, and Columbus Photobooths.

Families for a Cure is a central Ohio-based non-profit group that works to help local organizations that provide critical cancer support services to families and patients. Since 2004, Families for a Cure has raised more than $1.3 million through fund-raising events and sponsorships, to fund cancer research and support services. The organization also provides individuals, families and groups with experience grants that help those fighting cancer with the chance to get away from the daily reality and create new memories with friends and family.

For more information about Families for a Cure, its mission, how organizations may apply for a grant or the activities FFAC hosts throughout the year, please visit www.familiesforacure.org.