Stuff the bus for the sake of kids is the theme of a toy drive that’s been a Christmas undertaking for the Manteca Unified School District’s bus drivers dating back to 2008.

A large contingent of drivers kicked off this year’s effort Wednesday morning at the school district’s transportation center at the corner of Airport Way and Louise Avenue where they loaded gifts donated by the residents of the Del Webb Community of Woodbridge. 

Drivers Daveen Williams and Debbie Herrera were joined by Manteca Senior Center director Brandy Clark and other school bus drivers. Williams noted that the toy collection was initiated to serve only families but later evolved as an outreach to the entire community.

The bus will be at the Manteca Walmart in the 1200 block of South Main Street both Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make special visits on both days from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

On Dec. 7 the bus will be located at the Eagles Nest Harley Davidson in the 13000 block of Harlan Road in Lathrop. All donated items will benefit students and their families in the school district living in Manteca, Lathrop, French Camp and Weston Ranch.

For those unable to meet the bus, donations are being accepted at the Manteca Unified School District, the Manteca Senior Center, Eagles Nest Harley Davidson and at the Manteca Fire Stations.

The toy drive is also sponsored by the Manteca Youth Advisory Commission, Manteca Parks and Recreation, East Union High School, Kiwanis, Manteca Senior Advisory Committee, Girl Scout Troops 2687 and 725, Eagles Nest Harley Davidson, and Silver Barons MC.