Toys for Tots

http://santa-rosa-ca.toysfortots.org

Making a Difference

Toys for Tots is a program put on by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to convey a message of hope to less fortunate youth and inspire them to become responsible and patriotic citizens. They help young people experience the joys of the holidays by delivering them new toys. The program began in 1947, with a handmade doll and 5,000 collected toys. Since 1980, the program has developed and improved by only distributing new toys, to not make children feel they are a “second-class” citizen. Today, Toys for Tots has had the honor to deliver over 469 million toys to less fortunate children.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has a simple ideology: “today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders”. Growing up in poverty can have deep psychological effects on a child, including low self-esteem. With low self-esteem needy children often choose to live a dependently on the support of a community; however, with help from outside, children can learn to live a productive future in the community. Experiencing the distribution of toys from hardworking, patriotic Marines to less fortunate children sets an example for others to emulate. The toys many of these children receive from the Marine’s program provide them with a message of hope and give them the motivation to achieve their own success. One new toy can make an impact on any child’s life. We’ve made the decision to help make a difference, have you?