The Marine Toys for Tots Program collected and distributed 19 million toys to 7.3 million less fortunate children in this past year allowing them to experience the joy of Christmas and receive a message of hope that otherwise would not have been there. This community action program took place in over 800 communities covering all 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
The Toys for Tots Literacy Program helped bring the gift of reading to less fortunate children across the nation and has distributed over 2 million books since the program’s inception in 2008. The UPS Store is the primary sponsor of The Toys for Tots Literacy Program and raises funds at participating locations throughout the year – to date they have raised over $5,000,000! Other Toys for Tots Corporate Sponsors that contribute to our Literacy Program include Delta Air Lines, Dollar General, Scholastic, and First Book (to name a few).
The Foundation conducted an aggressive public information and education program to encourage Americans to get involved with the Marine Toys for Tots Program. This annual campaign brings communities together to help bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to America’s less fortunate children. Our Marines together with our tens of thousands of volunteers made a difference in the lives of these children through the collection and distribution of toys and by their selfless personal example. This community action effort will assist and guide these children, helping them to develop into responsible, productive citizens.