WASHINGTON (December 14, 2018) --- Howard University women's basketball will host a holiday toy drive during its contest against Mercer University on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. Donation boxes will be set up for new and unwrapped toys in the lobby entrance of Burr Gymnasium.

"The holidays are the perfect time of the year to give back to the community," said head coach Ty Grace. "We are gratefully privileged here at Howard and understand that not everyone is afforded the same opportunities that we are."  The toy drive will benefit children at the New Beginning Family Shelter in Northwest D.C.  The shelter provides temporary housing to 45 homeless families in the area.

"We are thankful that we can host an event such as this toy drive, to bring some joy and happiness to kids and families in our community. I hope everyone can come out in support of a great cause. Please don't forget to bring a toy and a friend!" Grace said.

Each toy donation is the equivalent of a ticket purchase for the non-conference contest. Tuesday's game is the team's final home game before beginning Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) play in January. 

About Howard University Athletics
The Howard University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics sponsors 19 NCAA Division I men and women varsity sports. The programs represent six conferences: the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Coastal Collegiate Swimming Association (CCSA), Sun Belt Conference, Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) and Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Conference. Visit www.hubison.com to learn more.