Kenyatta Smith, pastor of the church and CEO of Operation Covered Chicago, says that the church received more than 20,000 requests this holiday season, as families seek a little bit of help before the holiday season. That number is nearly double what the church received last year, and while the church regularly hits its goals, the coronavirus pandemic has put a dent in its efforts so far. “I’m seeing desperation,” Smith said last week. “I’m seeing a lot of hopeless situations and we just feel like it’s our mission to help change that narrative for a family.” The church says it will accept a wide variety of toys, including games, dolls, Hot Wheels cars and headphones, but any help is deeply appreciated with the toy drive nearing.