Edwardsville firefighters and police officers are holding a Christmas in July toy drive that starts with a kickoff event tonight.
Edwardsville Fire Chief Tim Whitham said the toy drive will last during the month of July and will provide toys for Edwardsville children in December.
Called the Ho-Ho Express, the toy drive began last year. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, firefighters and police officers escorted Santa and the Grinch to neighborhoods in Edwardsville, using social distancing, last year.
Tonight, new, unwrapped toys and cash donations will be accepted at Thirsty’s Bar and Grill, 11657 Kaw Drive, Bonner Springs, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Edwardsville police officers and firefighters will deliver Santa and the Grinch to Thirsty’s for little kids and big kids alike to enjoy the evening and interact with public safety professionals, the Grinch and to talk with Santa.