Exeter man tries to give kids hope through toy drive

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Chris Gray is trying to give kids throughout Exeter something he didn't have as a child -- HOPE. Growing up, he says his family had no money, no food, and no clothes.

"I don't want that for anybody," he said. "We have to give them some hope."

He saw a need in Exeter and knew he had to do something. That's why he started a toy drive three years ago in partnership with local non-profit, "Riding 4 a Reason." In the first year, he was able to help 26 kids in need. Last year, he was able to help 58 kids. This year, he's already found sponsors for 80 kids, with a dream number of 300.

"If I were to reach the 300 mark, it would mean the world to me. It would give me the strength to continue throughout the entire year, building a permanent emergency services department here in Exeter for all who are hungry and cold."

He's hoping to get closer to that number this weekend at a fundraising event at Rock Yard Tavern in Exeter. It's Saturday, November 18th from 4-8pm.

Click here to connect with the Exeter Toy Drive on Facebook.

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