Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots: Every Child deserves a toy for Christmas

0331 Marine-EMT — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 23:50:53 -0800

By Corporal Matt Wright (USMCR)

ANDERSON, IN - In 1947 it was painfully obvious to a Marine Corps Reserve Major that there was no formal organization to give needy children toys for Christmas. From humble beginnings, 60 years ago in Los Angeles, the Marine Corps Reserve has embraced its mission. Since that beginning, the Marines have delivered on the program's motto - "Every kid deserves a toy for Christmas." This year, a Marine Corps Reserve deeply involved in the Global War on Terror needs your help. By donating a new, unwrapped gift, you can help make this Christmas special for your fellow residents of Madison County.

A little known aspect of Toys for Tots revolves around the distribution of the gifts. Parents are invited to a designated location prior to Christmas and given the opportunity to pick their children's gifts. All toys are gathered from their respective areas and distributed to local families. This means your gift will go to a child that lives in Madison County. Your gift will benefit your neighbor, the people you see everyday and wish you could help. This is your chance to brighten their day, by allowing them to give their children a merry Christmas.

The Toys for Tots drive in Madison County is headed up by the local Marine Corps League. These Marines (don't call them Ex-Marines!) handle distribution of boxes and sorting of toys. They then designate a place and time for parents to pick them out. Eight years ago, I participated in the giving of toys to families. And let me tell you, it was an awesome experience.

The trouble comes in the advertisement of drop off locations and getting all the toys collected prior to the December 17th pick-up date. Here is a list of the major locations where you can drop off your gift:

Anderson Toys for Tots Locations:

City of Anderson Police Department
The Salvation Army
Job Source
10th Street Elementary School
White River Fitness (Scatterfield)
The American Legion (Columbus Ave.)
The Dollar Store (In Payless North Plaza)
United States Marine Corps Recruiting Office (Scatterfield)

Pendleton Toys for Tots Locations:

Town of Pendleton Police Department (States Street)
Pendleton/Fall Creek Township Fire Department (Broadway)

Now get out there and give those kids a special Christmas! That's an order!

Anderson Marine Corps League

Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots: Every Child deserves a toy for Christmas