Giveaway asks for toys, more toys for needy

Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Dec 20, 2004 by CARY LEIDER VOGRIN THE GAZETTE

Somehow, the Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway always comes together -- usually at the last minute.

A list written in marker on a board inside the Southern Colorado Expo itemizes some of what's needed to pull off the massive event: bags/boxes; music; hangers; trash Dumpsters; golf carts; security; volunteer IDs; EMTs/medics; hot chocolate, coffee and creamer/sugar for waiting people.

Not included on the list is the most obvious need: toys.

Toys, toys and more toys.

Terry Hooper, chief organizer of this year's giveaway, said a steady stream of games and other children's goodies have been coming in during the past week.

Among the offerings: sidewalk chalk and art sets, stacks of Monopoly and Chutes and Ladders games. And stuffed animals -- plenty of those.

"Barbies and little Matchbox cars seem to be the biggies," Hooper said as he walked past tables displaying new toys donated by the community.

"But this is only gonna provide for the first 500 or 600," he said.

In other words, the need is still great.

Last year, 5,000 people showed up for the giveaway -- essentially a free holiday shopping spree.

The charitable event -- a community tradition started more than two decades ago by Colorado Springs resident Bob Telmosse -- is intended to brighten the holidays for the needy, particularly children. No one is turned away.

People will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. A waiting area big enough for 1,300 has been set up inside the Expo.

"We have two different karaoke groups and Elvis," Hooper said of the entertainment intended for those waiting for their numbers to be called.

Hooper said toy shelves will be restocked as children go through and make choices.

And he offered this reassurance:

"We won't put out all the good stuff at once," explaining that popular or biget items will be rotated in throughout the day.

"The first ones in line can't take it all."

IF YOU WANT TO GIVE

The Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway will be Thursday starting at 2 p.m. at the Southern Colorado Expo, 1801 N. Union Blvd. Donations will be accepted 8 a.m to 8 p.m. today through Thursday. For information or to volunteer, call 633-9660.

Needs include toys and gifts that children can choose for their parents or guardians.