State Police Partner with the United States Marine Corps in Supporting Toys For Tots
For over 20 years, the Massachusetts State Police has partnered with the United States Marine Corps in providing drop-off areas for toys donated to Toys for Tots. As in years past, this year people can drop-off new, unwrapped toys at any State Police Barracks. This holiday season there is a specific need for toys designed for children under 2-years-old and for non-violent toys for children ages 9-12.
This year Toys for Tots needs help more than ever to achieve its goal of delivering, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy children that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. Last year, in a healthy economy, the Toys for Tots program fell short of its donation goals by a significant amount. Unfortunately, the current economic downturn has simultaneously left more Massachusetts families in need of toys for their children, and has resulted in a 50 percent decrease in toy donations from this time last year. The State Police and the Marine Corps encourage those with the means to donate to this very worthy program and help ensure a happy holiday season for a disadvantaged Massachusetts child.
At the event, members of the State Police and Marine Corps will speak about the goals of the Toys for Tots program and the specific needs for this holiday season. Additionally, a representative from Transitions at Devens, a charitable organization that provides shelter and related services for homeless families, will appeal for donations by illustrating how Toys for Tots has helped its resident families make the holidays special for their children. After the press event, members of the State Police and Marine Corps will be on hand until 11:30 a.m. to personally accept donations from the public.