Youngsters’ stays at Childen’s Hospital in Seattle can be more colorful, thanks to a charity event happening in the Snoqualmie Valley,

“Operation Crayon Drive” will collect crayons for hospitalized children, with two events, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at the Snoqualmie Ridge IGA, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 26, at the North Bend QFC.

The goal of “Operation Crayon Drive” is to ensure that each child at the hospital receives at least two crayons.

The event is supported by Cascade Team Real Estate in partnership with Children’s Hospital Guild Association Donated crayons should be non-toxic Crayola brands. Valley residents donated 500 boxes of crayons in 2008. The Cascade Team hopes to collect 5,000 boxes in the region this year.

To learn more or help, contact Tonya Eliason at (425) 831-5721 or e-mail to Tonya@TheCascadeTeam.com.