“Toys for Tots” Campaign Underway

By Charlie Bauder, WNEG Radio, Toccoa

The annual Toys For Tots campaign is gearing up in Northeast Georgia.

“Toys For Tots” is a program of the U.S. Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserve that collects and distributes toys to children and families in need each holiday season.

Don Alexander is the Toys For Tots coordinator for Franklin, Hart, Stephens and Elbert counties.

He says they expect to have the same demand this year as they had last year for toys.

“We are looking to do probably the same as last year, 1,666 kids, that is three toys a piece,” said Alexander. “It’s a lot of work.”

Alexander said they are beginning to distribute collection boxes to various locations in the area.

He says anyone wanting a collection box for “toys for tots” can contact him and they will work to get one to that location.

“A lot of volunteers now are reaching up in age and can’t get out like they have been,” said Alexander. “It is putting a burden on the rest of us. We just want people to know that if they need a box, call and we will get one out to them.”

The phone number for “toys For Tots” is 706-716-1123.

Alexander said that people should not leave a message at that number, but call back at another time if there’s no answer.

Meantime, organizers and volunteers will be out and about in the community collecting toys for the next couple of months.

Alexander says they asking for new, unwrapped toys, not only for small children, but also for older kids ages 11-16.

“The ideal thing would be a toy for the 13, 14, 15-year-old kids,” said Alexander, who added they get a lot of toys for younger children.

People can also donate money that will be used to buy toys.

“Toys For Tots” is also still accepting requests for assistance.

Anyone needing help at Christmas can call Toys for Tots at 706-716-1123 and again, people should not leave a message, but call back at another time if there is no answer.