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There's no better way to support your community than supporting your neighbors in need, especially during the holiday season. We'll feature local charities on Spew throughout this holiday season with links to donate your money, supplies and time.

Give the karmic wheel a spin for today's charity focus:

Santa Silvia

El Gaucho
Bring toys 4-11 p.m daily through Thursday, Dec. 23.
2119 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
253.882.0009

You know that shoe box you're currently using to store your Very Important Piece of String and the Equally Necessary Plastic Fork?  The one labeled Toolbox? 'Tis the season to put your pack rat tendencies to good use. Transfer the contents of your toolbox to that plastic-lined container you keep in the kitchen and fill up the shoebox with toys. Then bring your box of toys and other unwrapped gifts to El Gaucho Tacoma Bartender/Santa Silvia Cordova-Tapia. For the 10^th year, she's collecting toys that she'll deliver Christmas Eve to sick kids at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital.

We're freaking tearing up as we write. So awesome.

"It warms my heart to know that these kids will realize they are loved and that life is precious. I feel honored to have the opportunity to serve these kids each year," Cordova-Tapia tells us. "Believe me, walking into that hospital changes your life. It has taught me to appreciate the many gifts that I have been given in life and to not take anything for granted."

Your generosity will bring a smile to a child's face. Help Santa Silvia and her helpers make that happen. Drop by El Gaucho with your unwrapped toys and gifts, then celebrate your awesomeness with a Holly Berry Martini. Afterward, go buy yourself a new pair of shoes so you can replace the box.

Previous Mistledole charities

• Tacoma Community House
• Lindquist Dental Clinic for Children
• Olive Crest
• Emergency Food Network
• Catherine Place
• Mary Bridge Children's Foundation
• United Way/Project:U