WHO: Ella Mae’s Diner, located inside the new Luminary Hotel & Co., and the Dr. Piper Center for Social Services

WHAT: Ella Mae’s Diner at Luminary Hotel & Co. is inviting the public to participate in a holiday toy drive to benefit the annual Children’s Christmas Party coordinated by the Dr. Piper Center for Social Services. Donations of unwrapped toys can be brought to Ella Mae’s Diner through Sunday, Dec. 20.

Held on Christmas Day every year since 1915, the Children’s Christmas Party was started by Sarah Williams, mother of Dr. Ella Piper, for whom Ella Mae’s Diner is named. Over more than a century, the Christmas Party has grown from an original gathering of 15 little girls to more than 600 children. When Williams died in 1926, Ella Mae carried on her mother’s work with the assistance of many local churches, businesses, and community friends who donated gifts for the children. Since Dr. Piper’s death in 1954, the annual Christmas Party has continued uninterrupted through the faithful efforts of local citizens.

WHEN:  Now until Sunday, Dec. 20. Ella Mae’s Diner is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

WHERE: Ella Mae’s Diner, located inside the Luminary Hotel & Co. | 2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, Florida