 The Toys for Tots program began in 1947, and was founded on the premise that every child deserves a little Christmas. Today it continues to strive to provide underprivileged children with the simple joy of a new toy for Christmas.
During the first year of the program, approximately 5,000 toys were collected and distributed to needy children in the Los Angeles area. Since its inception, the program has grown to include over 200 Marine Corps sites throughout the United States, distributing over 100 million toys. During the 2000 campaign, approximately 10 million toys were collected and distributed nationwide. Last year, the Memphis Marines, in conjunction with over 120 local businesses and concerned citizens, conducted another tremendously successful campaign. More than 50,000 new toys were collected and distributed to over 100 local individual charitable organizations, providing Christmas presents for less fortunate children throughout the greater Memphis area. This tremendous accomplishment is the result of teamwork between the Memphis Marines and dedicated volunteers, caring individuals, local businesses, and organizations that share our belief that every child deserves a little holiday season joy. Community and corporate support of the program last year was unparalleled, ranging from record toy and monetary donations, to sponsorship contributions for vital support, such as public service announcements and media coverage. On behalf of the Memphis Marines, we say "THANK YOU" for making the wishes of tens of thousands of less fortunate children come true. We look forward to working with you during this year's campaign. Please do not hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about how you or your organization can help.
The Upcoming events
and How to apply pages will be updated as the Holiday season approaches.
Thank you again for your support of the Toys for Tots program.
Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful),
Misty M. Gatlin
SSgt, U.S. Marine Corps
Toys for Tots Coordinator
misty.gatlin@usmc.mil
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