Dance studio hosting toy drive this weekend

For the second consecutive year, Desert Sun Performing Arts is hosting a holiday toy drive for needy children. Half the toys collected will be given to Against Abuse, a shelter for battered women, and half will be given to the Maricopa Fire Department for distribution.

Anyone bringing a new unwrapped toy to the dance studio at 19756 N. John Wayne Parkway, Suite 114 will receive a free photo with Santa Claus courtesy of Amy Jamieson Photography.

“Our first event last year was a wild success showcasing the holiday spirit and true giving nature of Maricopa residents and business owners,” said Ceylan Gentilella, owner of Desert Sun Performing Arts.

Gentilella said they collected close to 100 new toys last year and hope to surpass that mark this year.

“We’re just happy to be a part of making sure the holidays are happy for every family,” she said.

The toy drive’s hours are Saturday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (520) 483-8915.