With less volunteers than before the pandemic, Toys for Tots’ work is incredibly important.
Today in Traverse City, volunteers sorted out around 4,000 toys at the Coast Guard Air Station.
This is co-coordinator Mike Kent’s 24th campaign.
He says this is not their program—it’s the community’s.
“Ultimately the goal, everyone who is volunteering here today, everyone who’s involved in the program—it’s to make sure that every child in Northern Michigan has a great Christmas,” Kent said.
The campaign goes through December 17th.
Kent says that with the pandemic, the need for donations is greater than usual.
“There are two hands for Toys for Tots, the hand that receives the toys and the hand that distributes the toys,” Kent said. “Both are equally important, we want to make sure that every parent knows there is help this Christmas, if they’re having a difficult time.”
George Champlin is a long-time volunteer here.
“We’ve been doing it at the Coast Guard for about 10 years, that’s when I started,” Champlin said.
A parent and grandparent himself, he enjoys helping other families to have a normal Christmas.
“It’s nice to be able to know that you are making a difference in helping bring Christmas to children who are less fortunate.”
If you are someone in need of help getting toys or just looking to donate, don’t wait—now is the time to be reaching out.
You can do so , just enter your state and country to find your local campaign.
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