The Sun City Posse kicked off its annual “Mission of Joy” toy drive for the children of Aguila, in cooperation with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department. Toys can be dropped off at Posse headquarters, 10861 W. Sunland Blvd., or the Grand Avenue office, 10415 Grand Ave., through Nov. 8.

Last year, Sun City residents heeded the call and more than 24 large boxes were filled with toys, in addition to two small bicycles, an electric car and multiple other large toys. The Posse estimates that more than 3,000 toys were donated last year. Because of that generosity, the MSCO added more community schools to its Christmas giving list and more children are benefiting. In addition, this year seniors at the Royal Oaks Life Plan Community donated more than 100 handmade wood toys to the youngsters and another resident has generously donated 150 Beanie Babies to the drive.

Aguila is nearly 70 miles from the West Valley with about 800 residents. The percentage of people living in poverty is more than 60 percent.

For years, Posse volunteers have privately donated to Aguila, but a few years ago the organization opened its “Mission of Joy” toy drive to its neighbors in Sun City and the program multiplied in size. With faultless dedication and unwavering commitment to helping others, Sun City residents gave with open hearts and a willing spirit and last year, and their efforts again paid off.

“People in Sun City are blessed and they show that commitment to others by being so generous with their gift of toys,” said Posse Cmdr. Sarah Davis. “I can picture the joy and happiness in Aguila because Sun City residents step up each year to help make Christmas special for those youngsters’ who live miles from them.”

This is not the first-time Posse members have helped Aguila. In the past, volunteers also have promoted a back-to-school drive that saw the Posse turn over boxes and boxes of supplies that included backpacks, notebooks, pencils, pens and much more to the MCSO.

“We are truly blessed here in Sun City,” added Davis.