If you haven't already, you will soon see Marines out collecting toys for needy kids.
Armed Conflict · · Los Angeles
If you haven't already, you will soon see Marines out collecting toys for needy kids.
The Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program began in 1947 by Maj. Bill Hendricks in Los Angeles. Acting under strict orders from his wife, Diane, Maj. Hendricks, and his Marines, collected and distributed 5,000 toys in Los Angeles. The next year, the Commandant of the Marine Corps directed all reserve units to establish a program.
In 2025, thousands of active duty, reserve, retired and former Marines in all 50 states delivered 24 million toys to nearly 11 million children.
If you need a toy for your child for Christmas, or want to volunteer or donate, find your local chapter here:
For those who are looking to donate: cash is king and allows the most flexibility for local chapters to meet unmet needs, but if you're looking to donate a toy, consider something for a child 8+. In my experience with the program, most donations are for kids under 8.
Source: @TheIntelFrog
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