Stamford Downtown kicked off its toys for Toys for Tots Wednesday at the Stamford Downtown Welcome Center.

The event encourages residents to donate any new, unwrapped toys that will directly support families in need.

The toy drive runs until Friday, Dec. 19 and will offer thank-you cards to donors that contain promotions for local businesses.

The center encourages donors to stop by the welcome center for additional information about upcoming events and programs throughout Stamford Downtown.