Toy Closet Items Available All Year

By Kendra Bobowick

Knights of Columbus Toy Closet Director Rick Scinto dug through bags crowding the space in the basement of the St Rose Religious Education offices at 38 Church Hill Road. From one he pulled out a remote control car still in its original packaging. Peeking from the top of another bag were the shining plastic eyes of a bright purple stuffed animal that Mr Scinto freed and held up to the light.

The children’s toys are part of the collection making up the Toy Closet, which will now operate year-round. “Why wait for Christmas?” asked Mr Scinto.

Originally named the Christmas Closet when it was started by K of C member Jim Tevnan last year, the Toy Closet aims to benefit the children of families who have encountered “hard times,” Mr Scinto said. Soon the K of C members will contact hospitals and women’s shelters to see who might receive something from the stash of toys, games, stuffed animals, and more.

As Mr Scinto had said, why wait for a holiday to give out the toys? Looking at the large bags bulging with items, he said this week, “The whole idea is to give this away.” The closet may be full, but certain age groups could use more donations. “We need items for teenagers from 13 to 17. They can’t be left out either, they’re kids,” he said.

The closet caters to children through the age of 17. Realizing that teddy bears do not apply, Mr Scinto offered his thoughts about what to get for teens, including movie passes and gift certificates.

 Many families, including those in town, can qualify to visit the Toy Closet. “Hard luck could be anywhere. Illness, financial hardship, loss of a job,” could happen to anyone, Mr Scinto said, and the closet is meant to benefit the children. Residents who would like to contribute or receive toys can contact Mr Scinto at 270-9539, or e-mail him at scinto1@earthlink.net.

Families looking to visit the closet and make selections are asked to make appointments, and also can call Mr Scinto. The closet has items for toddlers through teens, and is always looking for more “new and unwrapped” donations.