It’s time again for the Marines’ Toys for Tots Campaign in Medford. And without fail, each year brings a new challenge. This year, Mother Nature decided to make an early entrance with Sandy.
The 3rd Battalion, 14th Marines stepped right up and delivered 10,000 toys to these families, and as a result, their bins are depleted. Last week, a trailer full of toys was stolen from the Atlantic City campaign, which may impact them as well.
The way it works is, each reserve unit is responsible for collecting toys and funds for distribution in their specified area. If there is a surplus, they will help each other. Last year, the Ft. Dix Marines were able to supplement Philadelphia. This year, Atlantic City may need their help, and if they can, they will.
To explain further, there are several separate Toys for Tots campaigns going on in Medford. Only the drop-off locations and events listed on the www.toysfortotsmedford.com website and have become the responsibility of the 3rd Battalion, 14th Marines at Ft. Dix. These are the Marines you see in the Halloween parade, and driving the 7 Ton at Murphy’s and Dickens.
Other drop-off locations have a different coordinator, and those toys go to different specified families and organizations. That is how it works. They are not trying to overwhelm you with overlap. Each campaign covers a different neighborhood, and they help each other when they can.
To put it simply, the Marines need our help. And they understand that so many charities are hurting, and need your help, and you might be overwhelmed. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t cost very much to brighten the holidays of a family in need. If a child in your life would play with a toy or enjoy an activity, they can distribute it. However, they cannot accept toy weapons of any kind. Desirable items include any toy or activity for boys and girls ages infants to 13-years-old. Only new toys are distributed due to federal safety regulations dating back to the 1970s.
For details on where you can bring a new, unwrapped toy, or make a donation, please go to www.toysfortotsmedford.com. Email me at nancyflynnyoungkin@gmail.com, or call (609) 744–5448.
I’m involved because I believe that some things should be unconditional in a child’s life, like a gift to open during the holidays. For a child who isn’t sure they will be remembered, it means more than you know.
Thank you for your support,
Nancy Youngkin
