The Village of Park Forest’s Commission on Human Relations has launched its annual Toy Drive to help local families bring holiday joy to their children. The drive is accepting new, unwrapped toys for children ages 2 to 13 now through Friday, Nov. 21, at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.

The collected toys will be distributed during a giveaway event on Dec. 6. Families who hoped to sign up to receive toys have already filled the available spaces.

Community Relations Manager Evelyn Randle said the registration list closed just 48 hours after opening, reflecting the strong need among local families this season.

“We filled up so quickly this year,” Randle said. “That tells us how many families in Park Forest are feeling the strain right now and why community support for this drive is more important than ever.”

Randle noted that roughly 100 children from Park Forest will receive gifts from this year's drive. Additionally, she said the Village received a boost from ComEd, which contributed $1,000 to help the commission purchase additional toys for families in need.

“The holiday season can be a financial challenge for many, and ComEd’s donation will allow us to make sure more children in Park Forest have a gift to open this year,” Randle said. “It really makes a difference.”

Randle encouraged residents to continue donating new toys to support the cause, ensuring every child has a gift this season.

“We’re asking everyone who can to please bring a new, unwrapped toy and drop it off at the Economic Development & Planning Department on the second floor of Village Hall — it’s the first window on the right-hand side,” she said. “Every single donation helps brighten the holidays for a child in our community.”

For more information, residents can call 708-283-5621.