Local Toys for Tots Helping Over 3,000 Children

The 2022 holiday season marks the 75th anniversary of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and nationwide, donations have been down but the need to help families ensure their children have a happy Christmas has gone up.

The local chapter for Toys for Tots serves Franklin, Hart, and Elbert Counties, and this week, donated toys are being bagged and awaiting parents and caregivers for pick up, said local chapter coordinator Martha Prather.

She said even though donations are down, people in the tri-county area have opened their hearts and wallets.

But Prather said they have had to dip into their reserve funds to buy extra toys but they’ve also received some large monetary donations from organizations like the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association that cut Toys for Tots a check this year for over $8,000.

At their distribution center in Royston this week, dozens of large labeled bags filled with toys are awaiting pick up by the families.

Prather said they expect to help over 3,000 children this year with more applications coming in.

If you would like to donate toys or if you still need toys, you can contact Toys for Tots in Royston at 706-346-1292 and they will be happy to take your donation or help provide your kids with toys for Christmas.

For over seven decades, Toys for Tots has evolved and grown exponentially having delivered hope and the magic of Christmas to over 281 million less fortunate children.

Now, in our 75th year, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program also provides year-round support to families experiencing challenges and exceptional circumstances, thus helping to fulfill the hopes and dreams of millions of families and children in need across our great Nation.