Merced County agency starts gift drive next week

The Merced County Human Services Agency said it would hold its Holiday Gift Drive on Dec. 3 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Merced County Administration Building parking lot, at the corner of 23rd and M streets.

The Gift Drive will collect toys and gifts for disadvantaged children and teens in the area. Gifts are also being accepted at local area retailers, including the Starbucks store on Main Street in Merced and the local Firestone shop on Olive Avenue, next to Gottschalks. Gift barrels are located at these locations to accept donations throughout the holidays.

The county said there are more than 600 children in foster care and many others who will be without gifts this holiday season. HSA is accepting new, unwrapped toys and gifts for children and teens ages infant to 18.

In addition to the gift drive drop-off day on Dec. 3, gifts can be dropped off at the HSA Main Office, 2115 W. Wardrobe Ave. in Merced, through Dec. 16. Call (209) 385-3000, ext. 5285 for more information or to arrange pickup of gifts or other items.