Toys for Tots Spreads Holiday Joy Across Alabama: Kids all over Alabama are in for a festive surprise as the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve program Toys for Tots revs up its annual toy distribution drives, spreading holiday joy across the Yellowhammer State.
The mission of this non-profit is to gather new, unwrapped toys from October to December each year and share these gifts with children in local communities who may not have the means to receive them.
Sergeant Timothy McCollum, the coordinator for the Toys for Tots branch in Huntsville, shares that 2022 set a record for donations, and they’re hopeful for another strong showing in 2023.
“Last year, we distributed a little over 39,000 toys. After our distribution ended, we actually had around 6,000 donated to us. We helped out over 1,700 kids,” he explained. “This year, we’re on track to help around 1,500 to 1,700. We’ve had a little over 1,300 kids registered.”
Founded by the Marines in 1948, Toys for Tots has been spreading holiday cheer to families facing financial challenges. Sergeant McCollum emphasizes the positive impact of both local and national giving, extending beyond Alabama.
“2022 was a record-breaking year. We had 24.4 million toys, books, and games distributed to 9.9 million children nationwide. We had the help of over 50,000 volunteers last year, and thats nationwide,” McCollum continued. “Were hoping this year that we can still continue to help as many kids as we can.”
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While gift-giving takes the spotlight in December, McCollum reveals that Toys for Tots has additional offerings to support the community and families in need.
“We have a literacy month where we provide books to different schools and organizations. If there’s any tragedies that happen [volunteers] will go there and then provide toys to those children [who] lost everything.”
As the 2023 campaign wraps up, Toys are not currently being accepted. However, those interested in contributing can still make a monetary donation. Details can be found [here](URL). Sergeant McCollum assures that these monetary funds go directly to local campaigns, ensuring the purchase of toys for the community.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the Toys for Tots scandal?
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation’s national fundraising arm founder faced allegations in 1993 for embezzling millions from the charity. It was revealed that the majority of the funds raised that year were used for expenses instead of fulfilling the foundation’s purpose.
How does Toys for Tots distribution work?
Coordinators collect the toys and store them in central warehouses, where they are categorized by age and gender. During Christmas, Coordinators, along with local social welfare agencies, church groups, and other community organizations, distribute the toys to underprivileged children in the community.
What is the best toy to donate to Toys for Tots?
Rattles, blocks, sensory books, and musical toys are all fantastic examples. Babies also like to explore with their mouths, so a safe teether to chew on is important. Since babies aged 0-2 are learning to walk, a toy they can push and hold onto, such as a stroller, is also a great choice.
What age does Toys for Tots need most?
Children from 0 to 12 years old can receive toys. There is a high demand for gifts suitable for kids aged 0 to 2.