MAHOPAC, N.Y.—The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s annual Toys for Tots campaign is once again helping bring joy to children in need this holiday season. Since its inception in 1947, the nationwide program has collected and distributed new, unwrapped toys to families facing financial hardships, ensuring that all children experience the joy of receiving gifts during the holidays. The deadline for donations is Monday, Dec. 16.
The campaign relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and community organizations, with drop-off locations set up across the community. Volunteers, including Marines and local partners, work together to sort, package, and distribute the toys to children in need. Last year, Toys for Tots distributed more than 5,200 toys to nearly 2,350 children.
“No child should go without a gift during the holidays,” said Marine Corps Reserve Lt. Col. Jennifer Thompson. “Toys for Tots offers a simple way for people to make a meaningful impact on a child’s life, and we are grateful for the overwhelming generosity of Americans each year.”
Requested items include:
All ages: Learning toys, special needs toys, clothing, winter gear (coats, hats, gloves, scarves), books, DVDs, gaming systems/games (for group homes)
Age 0-2: Rattles, bibs, baby toys, snowsuits, pacifiers, baby blankets, onesies
Age 3-6: Dolls (ethnic), toys, games, crayons, art sets
Age 7-10: Dolls (ethnic), toys, games, arts and crafts
Age 11-12: Dolls (ethnic), DVDs
Age 13-17: Basketballs, footballs, sports equipment, calculators, wristwatches, electronic games, MP3 players, jewelry
To donate, visit the official Toys for Tots website to find local drop-off locations or make an online contribution. The campaign runs through mid-December, providing an opportunity for communities to come together in the spirit of giving. Visit putnam-ny.toysfortots.org for more information and to donate or request a toy. Or, write to putnam.ny@toysfortots.org for more info.
Donations can be dropped off at the following locations:
Article includes material from chatGPT
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