OC Police Toy Drive Reaches Out To 71 Families

OCEAN CITY - The annual Ocean City Police Department Toy Drive once again proved to be a blessing to many local families. A volunteer crew of 48 people, led by Chief Bernadette DiPino, tended to 71 families, including more than 150 children, last Saturday.

This event was started by DiPino's grandfather in the Baltimore Police Department many years ago. The tradition was continued by her father in Baltimore, and later by the chief 12 years ago here in Ocean City. Each year the event has grown.

This year, the department was fortunate to have received more than 130 bicycles that were donated by various organizations. Volunteers helped families load toys and boxes of food for the holidays.

DiPino was very pleased with the event.

'This year, it seems our community was more generous than ever. I was truly overwhelmed by the donations we received.'

Extra food and toys were given to the Worcester County Sheriff's Office to help with their drive. 

The Ocean City Police Department issued a statement this week expressing their appreciation to all of those who made donations in support of the event.