Toys for Tots helps kids in need during the holiday season
Credit: Kidsday staff artist / Matt Faraci, Sayville
Toys for Tots is a wonderful charity that was started back in 1947. It was started by Maj. Bill Hendricks. Toys for Tots has been run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves since it began.
The charity was very successful from the beginning. Close to 5,000 toys were collected and given to needy children that first year. About 548 million toys have now been distributed to 251 million children, according to the Toys for Tots website.
You may have noticed the large cardboard boxes around the holidays at various businesses. It is very easy to donate. Just place a new toy or game at one of the drop locations in your area. You can also host a Toys for Tots event in your home or office.
The organization has been very successful over the years with its nationwide toy drive. The mission is simple: to spread the joy of Christmas to needy children. Over the years, many famous people have helped Toys for Tots. Maj. Hendricks was good friends with Walt Disney, who designed the Toys for Tots poster and train logo.
As the holidays approach, please consider donating to this wonderful organization. We can all do a little bit more to spread Christmas joy.
Info: toysfortots.org.
Jennifer Guerriero’s fifth-grade class, St. Patrick School, Smithtown
