WACO, TX — Shepherd’s Heart's 9th annual Toys From The Heart toy drive will surely have an impact on Central Texas families this Christmas.
On Monday, cars lined down the street of Waco Mission, flowing in at steady pace to receive gifts they'll be able to give to their children on Christmas.
According to Pastor Tommy Frazier of Moldbreakers Fellowship, more than 700 children and 250 families will be able to put toys under the Christmas tree thanks to help of the community.
"We believe that when you touch people's lives, especially those less fortunate than, it helps change the city," Pastor Frazier said. "And so during the pandemic, there are a lot of people struggling or and they're down and just having people help is important to us."
Pastor Frazier said this year's toy donations have actually been down compared to previous years.
"They were down this year a little bit compared to previous, but yet at the same time, our recipients was up, so we doubled the number of kids that we blessed this year," he said.
Among those Moldbreakers Fellowship was able to help on Monday is Debbie Bowen. She said she went on vacation earlier this year in July, and when she came back, she no longer had a job.
"We've not had the money. We've been financially unable to, and because of this foundation, my grandsons can now have Christmas this year," Bowen said. "It's not a lot, but it's something. Before this we had nothing."
Bowen expressed her thanks to Pastor Frazier, who spoke with her for several minutes after and prayed with her.
"Tommy, thank you for everything you've done and for the ones that have donated. I do appreciate for what y'all have done," said Bowen.
Shepherd's Heart is still collecting toys at its food pantry, located at 1401 North 34th Street in Waco.
25 News is a proud sponsor the Shepherd's Heart Toy Drive.
