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St. CLAIRSVILLE --Get ready, kids, because Santa Claus is making another trip to the Ohio Valley.
On Dec. 10, "Operation Toy Lift" will have its sixth run as the Wheeling Police Department and the Belmont County Sheriff's Office team up to help make the holidays brighter for many area children. The event is set for the Ohio Valley Mall in St. Clairsville.
Since the event launched in 2017, thousands of local children have enjoyed a happier Christmas season thanks to the two law enforcement agencies joining forces and holding the event, along with the support of various community groups and businesses.
Those wishing to take part can purchase a new toy for ages ranging from infant to teenager and drop off to Toy Lift. Those who drop off a toy will receive a voucher for a free sandwich at Chick-Fil-A.
The event starts with a parade around the mall, with Santa arriving at the Toy Lift site promptly at 10 a.m. Anyone interested can attend.
After the parade, donation drop offs will be accepted until 4 p.m. in the parking lot across from Ferguson's House of Furniture. Various community members from the Ohio Valley will be helping throughout the day by grabbing the public's attention from the roadway in the 'Toy Lift.'
"It's amazing to see the support this operation has gained over the years," Wheeling Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger said. "To think of how many children have benefited from the Toy Lift is amazing. We look forward to another great year on Dec. 10."
Belmont County Sheriff Dave Lucas added," The Sheriff's Office is pleased to work with Wheeling PD and the many community partners that step up to the plate to make this great event happen. We hope to continue to raise hope for kids in the Ohio Valley again during Operation Toy Lift."
When the event concludes, the toys will be distributed to those in need through the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley. Anyone wishing to make a donation can make a cash donation or write a check to the United Way for the Upper Ohio Valley and write in the memo line "Toy Lift."