Community partners helped spread holiday cheer at DES on Dec. 21 with a toy giveaway for all students. The Schenectady County Sheriff’s Department and School Resource Officer Eric Reyell coordinated the effort, working with the Marines’ Toys for Tots. They brought 1,000 gifts, enough for each child to receive two presents each.
“It’s overwhelming to see all of the gifts. We are so grateful,” Principal Andrea Conover said. “This community has always been very generous.”
The department wanted to do something for the students. Many other toy events have been canceled because of the pandemic.
“We weren’t able to do the convoy or the train into Delanson this year, and that’s a big hit for this area, But we have a mission, and we don’t fail,” SSgt. Patrick Lurenz, Coordinator of Capital Region Toys for Tots.
All students were included in the event, including remote learners.
““We really appreciate it, being remote, and still being able to bring the joy of Christmas and the holidays to the kids. It’s really special, so we appreciate it.” said Jimmy Ryan, father of fourth-grader Anna.
Students also got to see some Quaker Street and Delanson fire trucks.
“We donated some gifts and jumped at the opportunity to come help with this event,” EMT Jessica Gathen said. “We usually help with the train, so we greatly appreciate that we could still do something for the kids this year.”