Dilbeck Real Estate is kicking off its annual Share the Spirit Toy Drive benefitting local organizations Hathaway-Sycamores, Five Acres and Hillsides.

These three organizations promote healthy development for troubled children and their families, year round. They provide food, clothing, education and homes for abused, neglected and homeless children. They also provide family support and sometimes intervention, residential programs, schooling and community services.

“This year, as in the past, we are encouraging Kids giving to Kids,” said Mark Dilbeck, president of the real estate firm. “This is a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about giving to others less fortunate. Let your youngster help pick out a toy for a boy or girl, between the ages of 6 and 18, and then they can drop it off at any of our 14 offices.”

The needs of children being helped by all of these organizations are many; donations are needed to brighten their holiday. Some examples of needed gifts include Lakers and other team jerseys and sweatshirt and caps; watches; Hot Wheels cars and race tracks; silver jewelry, nail and bath sets, Barbies of all ethnicities and accessories; CD player and CDs; remote-controlled airplanes, cars or trucks; action figures (non-violent); gift certificates for Tower Records, Old Navy, Toys ‘R’ Us, Sports Chalet and Barnes &  Nobel.

“We are also encouraging our friends to donate books,” said Bev Widney, director of public relations and special events. “We are dedicating the upcoming year to reading proficiency, and we are hoping that we can contribute not only books for the younger children but also the older children. Many of the children who call these facilities home are teenagers and it is always hard to find gifts for them. They are often left out … but there are books for all ages. So if you can’t find that perfect toy for the Toy Drive, consider dropping off a book.”

New, unwrapped toys or books can be brought to any of Dilbeck Real Estate’s 14 offices, before Friday, Dec. 17. To find the address of the nearest office, phone Bev Widney at (626) 852-3929.

“These children need food and shelter…they need warmth and love … and most of all they need hope,” said Widney. “Remember, together we do make a difference.”

  Dilbeck Realtors, Toy Drive