100 Black Men of Chicago's annual Toy Drive spreads holiday cheer to children in need

CHICAGO - Soldier Field's United Club was packed Tuesday night for the 25th annual Toy Drive Presented by 100 Black Men of Chicago — an event that gathered some 3,000 toys for Chicago children in need.

About 1500 supporters showed up, including Mayor Brandon Johnson, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, and Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling.

"It started out small because the community needed it. And now, it's just blown up," said Charles Walton, Executive Director. "We're glad to be leading and starting the charge to get people in the right frame of mind to give back."

Walton calls his members "real men donating real time," and hundreds of their supporters showed up with toys to help the cause. The toys will be going to needy children via some 30 Chicago nonprofits, including shelters.

"Those are kids who are needy and need love and these toys show that these kids have love," said Erinn Michelle Hayes, a third year volunteer. "They may not know who it is, but someone loves them."

Mayor Johnson kicked off the evening with a message about the importance of role models like the 100 Black Men of Chicago.

"The work that you all are doing is not just transforming lives for today, but it's setting up a better future. Particularly for Black boys who need the examples that are in this room," said Johnson.

If you couldn't make tonight's toy drive, toy pick up locations will be scattered throughout the city and they're collecting toys through the end of the year. For more information, check out 100bmc.org.