Ridge store serves as drop-off for drive for Halloween costumes for kids affected by Sandy

One local toy store is doing its part to help those families still affected by Superstorm Sandy.

Kaleidoscope Toy Store will serve as a drop-off point for Halloween costumes that area residents wish to donate to families whose homes and possessions were ravaged by Sandy.

It all came about after Kaleidoscope co-owner Inna Trinidad saw a message on the social networking site Facebook posted by Marianne Curran Fezza. Fezza had shared the request made by Kimberly Clark, organizer of Sandy Hope. Once she recognized the need, Trinidad decided to step up and contribute.

I wanted to offer Marianne a store and drop off point so she could use our resources for people to donate, instead of making endless trips from home to home. In the past, she had an Easter Drive and raised 200 baskets, said Trinidad.

From now until October 15, parents and their children are invited to donate any of their old costumes. A slight incentive is given for those who decide to take part in the noble cause. They will receive a discount on select merchandise from the store in exchange for the costumes. Donate and receive 15 percent off an entire purchase or 30 percent off one costume or buy one and get the second at 50 percent off, Trinidad explained.

With the help of flyers around various schools and social media, Trinidad has spread the word and so far, it has paid off. Just one week into the plan, the effort has been a resounding success. So far, we’ve collected two fairly large boxes of costumes, said Trinidad.

Kaleidoscope Toy Store is located at 8722 Third Avenue. Store hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call 718-491-2051.