Since 1947, the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program has helped millions of less fortunate children share in the magic of the holidays. The Marine Corps partners with thousands of local charities to administer the Toys for Tots program.
In addition to the various local charities as well as non-profits, Toys for Tots relies on donations from corporations, individuals and local communities.
According to Gunnery Sgt. Austin Williams, the Toys for Tots coordinator for the Eastern region, this year, COVID-19 has presented even greater challenges and impacted families across the globe. “There are more families in need with less people to donate,” Williams said. “Toys for Tots offers hope for less fortunate and allows (children) to have a gift at Christmas. It affects the families and children in a positive way. It shows them that the Marine Corps is involved in the community and their lives.”
Since 2019, there has been 76,014 toys donated and 13,661 children supported in Eastern North Carolina. The Toys for Tots campaign runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 15. With the holiday season approaching, now is the time to donate to make a child’s wish come true, said Williams. In addition to the holiday campaign, Toys for Tots accepts donations 365 days a year.
There are multiple ways to donate. Experience the joy of giving by placing your new, unwrapped toys in one of the signature white cardboard containers. There are over 10 locations on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune , including the Marine Corps Exchange. For even more ways to donate, Toys for Tots has also launched their virtual campaign at www.toysfortotsbox.com.
“I have dedicated myself to this program and I’ve already volunteered my services to be the coordinator for next year,” Williams said. “Hopefully we can build a bigger relationship with businesses and local communities to help support the future of America, the children.”
For more information on the Toys for Tots program and how to donate, visit MCB Camp Lejeune’s page at https://camp-lejeune-nc.toysfortots.org.
Date Taken: | 12.04.2020 |
Date Posted: | 12.08.2020 10:17 |
Story ID: | 384427 |
Location: | MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
Web Views: | 496 |
Downloads: | 2 |
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