Toys are for Kids

The holiday season brings out the desire to share what we have with others, esp. with children. One organization that helps out is the Toys for Tots campaign run by the Marines. Do you know it was started in 1947 because the wife of a Marine major couldn't find an organization that collected toys for needy children? That first year, 5000 toys were collecting in Los Angeles alone. The success of the 1947 drive was the start of the nationwide Toys for Tots organization.

In 1980 Toys for Tots started collecting only new toys and 11 years later formed the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. It is estimated that over 370 million toys have been distributed since the beginning of Toys for Tots.

Of course there are now many other organizations that also collect toys and food for children and needy families. Tomorrow night St. John's will be boxing up presents and dinner supplies for over 80 families which will be distributed on Saturday.

I'm sure there are churches, hospitals and other organizations near you who would love a small donation--not only to help a child, but to feed your soul. Certainly there are Toys for Tots drop boxes in many locations and you can donate online as well. (toysfortots.org)

Of course, it's also fun to give gifts to the little ones you love and know personally! May you find blessing in helping one of the least of these this holiday season.

See you tomorrow.