LITTLE ROCK, Ark — A decades-old toy drive will carry on without the guidance of its starting leader this year.
Robert "Say" McIntosh, who was a well-known community and political activist in Little Rock, passed away at the age of 79 in June. However, his holiday tradition of giving back since 1962 will continue with the help of the Say's Stop the Violence organization and North Point Church of Christ.
McIntosh was known in his community as not only the Sweet Potato Pie King but also Black Santa.
"[McIntosh] loved providing toys for children. For years, children that he thought would not have a brand new bicycle. It was his passion to try and make sure every child in Little Rock or surrounding communities had a new bicycle at least one time in their lives," Derotha, McIntosh's widow said.
McIntosh’s mission was to do the work of God by feeding the homeless, fighting for the underserved, and donating his time and resources to make Little Rock and Arkansas a better place for his family and his community. Even in his absence, his family and friends continue that mission with the help of community partners like Mosaic Templars Cultural Center and Central Arkansas Library System.
Derotha works as the CEO of the Robert Say McIntosh Foundation and said this was McIntosh's favorite time of the year.
"This is a favorite time of the year for [McIntosh]. We certainly want to make it the best that we ever can in his memory. And as we go on forward, this is what we're going to continue to do with your help," Derotha said.
You can donate bikes, toys, gifts for seniors, and monetary donations to the foundation by collecting toys and gift items for both children and senior citizens.
Donations are needed by Sunday, December 10, and can be dropped off at Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 501 W. 9th St., Little Rock, during normal business hours.
This January, McIntosh would have been 80 years old. The group's goal is to donate 80 bikes.
Donations that require pick up should be directed to Derotha Webb McIntosh at 501-960-2468.
All donations are needed in by December 10.
The annual Black Santa Christmas Toy and Gift Luncheon will be held on Saturday, December 16, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Willow House. To obtain gift items, children must be accompanied by an adult guardian.
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