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$7,500 checks distributed to four local agencies

COLUMBUS—This year’s Polk County Toy Run was a record year with over $33,000 raised. 

The toy run was held on Saturday, Nov. 30 with 430 motorcycles, 150 passengers and 45 volunteers. The run collected 56 bags of toys and raised over $33,000, which is the most money ever collected for the toy run. 

“Thanks to al the sponsors that help make this happen year after year,” said toy run director Barry Gee. 

Gee presented checks to four local agencies this past Saturday at Southern Manners in Columbus. 

Each agency received $7,500 and will use the money, along with toys collected, to distribute to Polk County children in need this Christmas. 

The checks were presented to Steps to HOPE, Polk County Department of Social Services, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry. 

“They will take this money and all the toys donated by the bikers and all the Polk County citizens,” Gee said. 

This year’s toy run was a little different in that a major donation was made from Melanie Talbot of Green River BBQ in Saluda. Talbot donated a 2003 Harley Fat Boy with a drawing made during the toy run. The drawing raised $9,779 alone. Ricardo Kidd, of Rosman, won the drawing. 

Riders in the toy run rode from Saluda, through Tryon, Landrum, Green Creek, Mill Spring and Columbus. Toys were dropped off at the Polk County Courthouse. 

The toy run is supported by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Saluda Fire Department, Thermal Belt Outreach, the Polk County Department of Social Services, Steps to HOPE, area motorcyclists, Christian Motorcyclists Association and local businesses and residents. 

With over $33,000 raised this year, 2019 broke the record of most money raised. The last record was $22,000 raised.