CCSO annual holiday toy drive set to kick off this weekend

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, with the support of Cherokee Nation Emergency Management and Cherokee Nation Public Health, is hosting its annual Christmas toy drive.

Former Deputy Lt. Jarrod Rye said his wife, Michelle, came up with the idea five years ago, and Deputy Blake Lyons has taken the reins this year.

The drive consists of two 12-hour days and one 8-hour day, which kicks off at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in the parking lot of Walmart. Deputies will complete the first day at 10 p.m., and resume the other 12 hours at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. Donations can also be dropped off between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3.

The toy drive also serves as a meet-and-greet between deputies and children.

“Cherokee Nation Emergency Management and Cherokee Nation Public Health will also be providing support throughout the event,” Lyons said.

After the 3-day event, donations will be taken to St. Francis Children's Hospital in Tulsa.

There are restrictions on donations and toys must new and store-bought, in their original packaging. The hospital cannot accept: pre-loved or gently used items; items that have been in storage for an extended amount of time; stuffed animals without tags; beanie babies; or toys that depict weapons such as guns or swords.

Cash donations will be accepted, and Lyons said more toys will be purchased using those funds.

Toys or money donations can be dropped off at the sheriff’s office anytime until Dec. 11. Checks will be accepted and should be made out to Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.