Toys for Tots begins campaign here

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Christopher A. Marasky
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  The Toys for Tots campaign officially kicked off here on Nov. 3 with an opening ceremony at the Kadena Base Exchange.

This year's campaign is aimed at bringing cheer to military dependents, Okinawa children, and teens.

"We just look forward to overall excitement as we remind everyone that it's that time of year again," said Stacey Belden, sales and merchandise manager for the Kadena BX.

The program was founded in 1947 by Marine Reservist Maj. Bill Hendricks, and the familiar train logo was designed by Disney founder, Walt Disney.

"Toys for tots is a non-profit organization whose primary goal is to ensure that all disadvantaged children in the area, have at least one toy for Christmas," said Marine Staff Sgt. Suzette Smith, III Marine Expeditionary Force reserve liaison office. "We also see that disadvantaged children with parents in the grade of E-5 and below have at least one toy as well."

Other Toys for Tots events will be going on through the month of December when the campaign winds down, such as a Christmas tree lighting, family day and a cocoa express Dec. 16.

Kadena's BX will also have boxes for members of Team Kadena to deposit donations throughout the season.

"The Marines are going to have representatives out here on the weekends," said Ms. Belden. "They'll greet customers, accept their donations and to give them a personal thank you."

Anyone can donate a toy for the drive, but the Toys for Tots program also has specific needs according to Marine Sgt. Shamala Henson, III Marine Expeditionary Force reserve liaison office.

"All toys are really good, but the age we're trying to focus on is the pre-teens, as well as teenagers up to the age of 18," said Sergeant Henson.

"A lot of people assume with Toys for Tots you're looking at a little kid," she said. "But the foundation also supports the preteen age up to teenager, and that's where we are really hurting right now."

The program here at Kadena and on Camp Foster also needs donations of more than just toys, as they are looking for volunteers as well.

"We need volunteers to help with the boxes," said Sergeant Smith. "We also need volunteers to work at the warehouse, sorting toys by boys and girls, as well as age groups.

"We are also looking for individuals who know which organizations in the local area are in need of help this year, so that we can aid them with toy donations," she said.

As the Toys for Tots season prepares to kick off, those involved highly encourage participation in the charity.

"It's a great cause," said Sergeant Smith. "Come on out, drop off a toy and help at least one child have a good Christmas. That's what it's all about, helping out needy children."