Toys, clothes sale helps local families at Christmas

     The Jones County CPPC (Community Partnerships for Protecting Children) and Jones County Family Council are working together yet again this year to host their fifth annual Kids Toys & Clothes Sale.

     The event will be held on Friday, Dec. 1 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 2 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Anamosa Middle School.

     Aside from wanting to spread the word for families to attend and take part in, Rachel Williams, the CPPC coordinator, said they are also seeking donations and volunteers for the two-day event. They are accepting donations of new or gently used clothing and kids’ toys.

     “We are in need of a wide variety of toys,” explained Williams. “As long as they are in good condition, we’ll take them.”

     Some of the infant care items that are in high demand include: high chairs, blankets, and toddler beds.

     “We typically get plenty of infant clothes,” recalled Williams. “But we’re always in need of tween/teen clothes, especially boys’ clothes because of the wear and tear.”

     Those willing to donate goods can contact Williams and she will arrange a date/time to either pick up your donation or meet you at their storage shed in Anamosa.

     “Barner Realty & Auction donated the shed for us to store all of our donations in,” praised Williams. She joked this is a much better arrangement than her garage.

     All of the toys and clothes are priced at an affordable cost for the sale, which happens to take place just in time for the Christmas holiday season.

     “This is an opportunity for families to buy Christmas presents or necessities, wants or needs,” explained Williams, “at a low cost.” She explained for some, this sale is their only opportunity to give their children a nice Christmas.

     The sale is open to the public.

     “We want to sell as much as possible,” urged Williams.

     The money raised from the sale helps to foster local programming to benefit families right here in Jones County.

     “It goes toward family-centered events, professional development for schools, and emergency/crisis funding,” Williams said.

     Both the CPPC and the Family Council are non-profits.

     “Our goal is to strengthen families in Jones County, to prevent child abuse, to lessen the stress on families, and help with any needs,” Williams said of the mission.

     Those wanting a receipt for their donation for tax purposes just need to ask.

     She urges people to consider donating toward the toys and clothes sale versus taking items to Goodwill or trying to sell them on Facebook garage sale sites.

     “Keep them (donations) local to benefit a good cause,” she said. “I started donating things in my closets before I even started working for the Family Council.”

     Aside from just the sale, there will also be cookie decorating, story time, and an art station on hand during the two-day event. Another reason volunteers are in need.

     To contact Williams in regards to donating or picking items up, call or text her at 319-325-5160. You can also e-mail her at jonescountycppc@gmail.com.