The giving nature of the Three Forks community will be on display with the first-annual Winter Wonderland Toy Drive.
The event organized by the First Security Bank Three Forks Branch and Headwaters Area Food Bank will allow residents the opportunity to donate new toys and or food through December 15. The toys and food can be dropped off at the First Security Bank at 320 South Main and several other Three Forks businesses.
The toys will be on display for anyone needing them at the food bank located at 216 First Avenue West. As part of the inaugural drive, residents can bring a new toy or can of food to the Three Forks Firehouse during the Christmas Stroll on December 1 to get a free picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Roxi McDermott of First Security Bank said this year she was lucky enough to become Branch Manager in Three Forks.
“One of the things that I have taken pride in is to become more involved in the community. I have gotten to know Emily Smith (Operations Manager) from the food bank and see so many of the wonderful things that our community has to offer. In years past, we have been a part of Toys for Tots. However, all of these toys go to Bozeman, where families can pick them up,” she said.
McDermott called and visited with Smith about how to help area families more locally.
“We decided that it would be fun to do a toy drive here in our community. And so, it became the Three Forks first annual Winter Wonderland Toy Drive,” McDermott said.
Smith is putting together an area at the food bank where families can stop in and pick up gifts, and the two discussed the photos with Santa at the Stroll.
“I am super excited to be part of not only helping the community but to see all the fun the kids will have with Santa,” said McDermott. “This season should be a time for families to make memories. It should be a time of fun, food, and joy. The more we can give back to our community, the more families will be able to enjoy the season as it should be.”
Boxes for the Winter Wonderland Toy Drive will also be available at Three Forks Medical Clinic, Main Street Office, Three Forks Saddlery, Bee Lazy Quilting, V42 Fitness, and Three Forks Market. Three Forks businesses wishing to get a box for donations can contact McDermott by email at [email protected].