Sgt. Magaña's 19th Annual Toy Drive

Published on November 26, 2024

It started almost 20 years ago when he was an officer on patrol Christmas Day in East Salinas. Now as a Sergeant with the Salinas Police Department, Gerry Magaña reflects on a conversation that left an impression on him. When he asked a group of kids what they received for Christmas, they said they didn't get anything. It was then that he decided to start an annual toy drive for children in need. 

Every year, Sgt. Magaña purchases toys that he loads in the trunk of his car, and on Christmas Day, he drives through East Salinas to distribute them. The positive community impact that the effort has made has continued to grow over the last several years. The goal is to make sure as many kids as possible get something for Christmas and to strengthen the relationship between the community and police. 

"When these kids grow up they won't remember my name," said Sgt. Magaña. "But they'll remember a police officer would drive through their neighborhood on Christmas and give them toys."

Residents interested in donating new, unwrapped toys can drop them off at the Salinas Police Department through December 23rd. 

19th Annual Sgt. Magaña's Toy Drive

Accepting:  New, Unwrapped Toys

Drop Off:  Police Service of Salinas, 312 E. Alisal St., Salinas

Drop Off Days / Times:  Donations accepted through December 23rd, Monday through Friday from 8 AM - 5PM.

For questions, please email SPOT@ci.salinas.ca.us or call (831) 758-7965.

Please note that registrations are not being accepted to receive gifts. Toys are distributed in neighborhoods primarily in East Salinas.