The goal is to give at least two toys to each child, Tase said. Children can even request the kinds of toys they would like. We had a kid who wanted a pair of Rollerblades. Richards said, because none of the pricey inline skates had been donated. The local campaigns begin in October and last until Dec. 22.
People drop off new, unwrapped toys in collection boxes at businesses.
Coordinators pick up the toys and store them in a central warehouse, where the toys are sorted. Marines, with the help of local social-welfare agencies and church groups, then distribute the toys to the neediest children in the community. Corporate sponsors also donate to the program, helping with toys and overhead expenses. Toys are distributed as close as possible to Christmas, but exceptions sometimes are made. The Marines delivered toys to Franklin and Southampton County residents flooded out of their homes during Hurricane Floyd in September.