"In 2013, my 5 year old daughter, Praisia, and I went on an outing to where I grew up.  I showed her the 2 bedroom apartment where my single mother raised myself, my brother, my sister, and many times hosted guests of those in need.  Our apartments were located in East Salinas (California) in a impoverished neighborhood yet my Mother didn't let it seem that way.  She was rich in love and giving back.  Christmas morning, she would invite all of our neighbors to take a walk a half mile down to the Salvation Army for toys and clothing.  Then, journey back for a feast.  Each family would bring out their kitchen table into the common parking area and my Mother would cook for the neighbors and we would potluck.  That was my memory that I shared about christmas.  

My daughter Praisia has a different childhood experience.  She has all of her needs met. After sharing my story and showing her where we lived and received gifts, her response was, "Daddy I have money in my piggy bank.  Can we go to the store and buy some toys to give to the Salvation Army?"  That was the beginning.  We went to Toys R Us bought some toys from the money in her piggy bank.  Asked some of my closest friends if they'd like to do the same with their children.  Had the Salvation Army drop off some collection bins and we we had the first annual toy drive in front of my home hosted by my daughter, Praisia Lowe."

Ollie Lowe

"After posting our first annual toy drive on social media, I received an outpouring of support from my friends and members of the community.  They connected with the story and too wanted to know how they can be a part of the cause.  The following year I realized the drive was growing much larger than I could handle in front of my home.  A good friend of mine, Brian Holaday asked how he could team up and help put on a larger drive.  With the support of many donations and services we were able to host the 2nd annual toy drive at 201 Main in Old Town Salinas."

Ollie Lowe

"For the third annual toy drive, we decided to add a different aspect to the drive.  We enlisted businesses and organizations to join in a month long drive prior to the toy collection event.  The result was amazing!  We filled hundreds of collection bins.  We hosted a shopping day where we took a busload of children to Target and bought toys with funds donated by several local businesses.  The finale toy drive tripled in size.  To see that much support in the community and knowing how many children these toy would touch was breathtaking."

Ollie Lowe & Brian Holaday

"The fourth annual Operation Give Back Toy Drive has picked up even more momentum.  We started with a vision last year to add the "12 days of christmas" mini drives.  Where businesses promote and conduct a public drive ultimately contributing to to overall dive.  This year's drives included Fair On Farm November 19th, Holiday Open House at Prosource Dec 1st, Salinas Valley Fair in King City Dec 10th, and Toys R Us Dec 10th & 11th.  The annual drop off event is December 7th @ Fox Theater in Oldtown Salinas from 4-8.  Will feature Santa, games, food, and music for the kids."

Ollie Lowe and Brian Holaday

Thank you, to the businesses and individuals who participated in the 4th annual Operation Give Back Toy Drive.