MEADVILLE, Pa. -- Multiple Allegheny College varsity teams are joining together to make a meaningful difference for local children and families in need during the holiday season through a series of toy drives.

Men's and women's basketball are hosting their annual toy drive to benefit the Center for Family Services in Meadville.  All toys and monetary donations collected will stay in Crawford County to support local families. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages to the following home games at the David V. Wise Center:

• Wednesday, December 3 vs. Westminster (6/8 p.m.)
• Friday, December 12 vs. PennWest Edinboro (5:30 p.m.)
• Saturday, December 13 vs. Case Western Reserve (1 p.m.)

In addition, the women's basketball game against Westminster on Wednesday at 6 p.m. will feature a Teddy Bear Toss. Fans who bring new teddy bears or plush toys will be able to throw them onto the court after the Gators score their fourth point. All toys collected will also be donated to the Center for Family Services.

On Saturday, December 6, the Allegheny men's lacrosse team is volunteering to host a pop-up toy drive for the Crawford County Toys for Tots program. The Gators will be collecting new, unwrapped toys at the Robertson Athletic Complex from 8 a.m. through 2 p.m.

Please note, imitation weapons such as toy guns will not be accepted.