BY MERLE MONAHAN/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

merlemonah@aol.com

WINDSOR—Three years ago, Windsor Police Chief Vic Reynolds learned that a few children in town wouldn’t be getting toys for Christmas.

So he bought a few presents, enlisted the help of the fire department and rode around town handing out gifts.

The next year, Reynolds extended the program. Word got out, and townspeople donated toys, while volunteers stepped in to help.

This year, Reynolds’ Toys for Kids has gotten so big that he’s had to rent a storage unit.

“But this is good. The more toys, the more we can help,” he said. “The economy has taken its toll on people — many are out of work and just can’t afford to have a big Christmas.”

The department was told about so many more families who need assistance and doesn’t want to leave out any kid.

Reynolds has transferred the presents to the police station and urges people to pick out what they need. He suggests people to set up a time.

Reynolds also suggests that kids watch for Windsor fire trucks, police cars and rescue squad units on the streets from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Christmas Day.

“They may get a chance to see Santa Claus,” he said.