Polk County Toy Run raised $6,000 for needy Polk County children this year. The event brought 300 motorcylists roaring through the area contributing toys and money.
Participants in this year’s Toy Run, held on Nov. 27, rode from Saluda through Tryon to Landrum, around to Mill Spring and ended up at the Polk County Courthouse.
The bikes’ approximate 450 riders, and other residents who dropped off toys, donated three truckloads full of toys to be distributed this season.
Polk County Toy Run Director Barry Gee said he is very pleased with this year’s turnout, considering the current economy. Participation and donations were down slightly from last year. Gee said the event raised about $6,000 this year, compared to $9,000 last year. Last year the Toy Run had approximately 485 motorcycles and 600 participants.
The money was distributed this year to four local agencies: the Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, the Polk County Department of Social Services, Steps To HOPE and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office was added this year, according to Gee. Each organization received a little over $1,400 to distribute toys to children in need.
A 50/50 raffle is held each year. Last year’s winner chose to donate the $1,000 winnings back to the Toy Run, which is part of the reason the event raised about $9,000 last year. This year’s 50/50 winner won $750, according to Gee.
The Toy Run is sponsored every year by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.