This holiday season, My Annapolis Office is proud to partner with Toys for Tots, working together to bring the joy of Christmas to economically disadvantaged children in Annapolis. Through this partnership, we aim to help the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program achieve its mission: to collect and distribute new, unwrapped toys to children who might otherwise go without. With each donation, we’re not only brightening a child’s holiday but also delivering a powerful message of hope.
Founded by the U.S. Marine Corps, Toys for Tots has been spreading joy and support across the country for decades. The program officially began in 1947 when Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks organized a local toy drive in Los Angeles. This heartfelt initiative quickly grew nationwide, and by 1991, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation was established as a nonprofit to provide critical support. Today, the foundation supports nearly 800 local campaigns each year, ensuring that millions of toys reach children in need.
Toys for Tots is more than just a holiday charity; it’s a community-driven initiative that rallies people together for a shared cause. In 2023 alone, Toys for Tots distributed over 25.5 million toys across the United States. This monumental effort wouldn’t be possible without the support of businesses, community groups, and volunteers who dedicate their time and resources. With this year’s partnership, MAO is excited to join the countless individuals and organizations dedicated to making a difference for children in our area.
MAO invites clients, visitors, and members of the community to drop off new, unwrapped toys valued at around $10 or more at our front desk reception area. Toys for Tots requests that donations be new to ensure every child receives a quality gift. They do ask that you avoid donating items that resemble realistic weapons, toys with food or candy, or any toys with chemicals. This careful selection helps provide children with safe and suitable toys to enjoy.
For those who may prefer a monetary donation instead of a physical gift, Toys for Tots gladly accepts cash donations. These funds are used to supplement toy collections where there may be a shortage, ensuring that each local campaign meets the unique needs of its community. Cash donations allow Toys for Tots to bridge any gaps, so every child gets a meaningful gift, regardless of how many toys were locally donated.
To contribute, simply bring your donation to the front desk of My Annapolis Office. We’ll be collecting items until December 7th, with all contributions being picked up by Toys for Tots on December 8th for distribution in time for the holidays. If you know of a family in need, or if you’d like to learn more about requesting toys, you can visit the official Toys for Tots request page to find more information on how the program can help.
Additionally, if you’re interested in finding your local Toys for Tots chapter or supporting campaigns beyond Annapolis, please visit their local chapter directory. With so many communities participating, there are countless ways to make a difference in a child’s life this season.
Join us in supporting Toys for Tots this holiday season, and let’s work together to make sure every child in our community feels the warmth and joy of Christmas. Your contribution, whether it’s a toy or a cash donation, will bring happiness to children and families in need and help build stronger, more hopeful communities. Let’s fill the toy collection box to the brim and make this season truly unforgettable for the kids in Annapolis and beyond.
