My name is Belinda Gilchrist-Day. I had a vision to create a project in memory of my son Darreis S. Toyfoya who died a senseless death in the Grand Lake community of Oakland, California on July 29th, 2006. Darreis's murder remains unsolved and we still dont know why my son's life had to come to such a tragic end at such an early age. Our family still doesn't have closure but we have a mission.

I would like to take the time to paint you a picture of who Darreis was as a person. Darreis was an 18 year old, mentally challenged young man with other disabilities. Darreis attended La Cheim School in Richmond, California. He was a client of the Regional Center of Children and Specialized Services. He was well known to the community and well liked by most people. Darreis lived in the community were he was killed.

Even though my son had disabilities, he possessed many talents. Darreis knew the Lord, One of his favorite things to say when things did not go his way was, "Well Mom, I'll sing and I'll pray and I'll pray my way through". My son did just that.

Darreis was always giving, sharing, and spreading love. He loved all people, he loved cars and animals. He could always be found under the hood of a car, in the company of an elderly person helping them out, or babysitting. My son enjoyed the simple things in life like fishing and horseback riding.

My son was always a friend to anyone in need, whether its someone in need of money, food, or clothing. Darreis would bring home the hungry to get get a hot meal without a second thought. He often shared his money and would give clothes right out of his closet if someone was in need. If Darreis saw someone struggling to carry groceries home, he would always rush to help.

My son had a heart of gold, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Because of Darreis's kind and generous spirit, I'd like to honor his memory with a project that will assist in providing basic needs to the community. In addition, hot meals will be served the third saturday of each month to those in need within the community. 

The family and supporters of Darreis Stevlin Toyfoya has created this project with the help of community organizations and donations in memory of a mentally challenged, disabled young man. We are asking for your continued support and assistance in the struggle to curb violence in the City Of Oakland. We can work together and save our children.

Many thanks from the family and supporters of Darreis Stevlin Toyfoya.

Sincerely,