With Christmas coming up, Toys for Tots is in full effect, receiving donations to give to children in Bakersfield and its surrounding cities. This is a local charity that is put together by the United States Marine Corps Reserve and happens yearly throughout the United States.
The United States Marine Corps Reserve put together this campaign every year because their goal is to deliver a message of hope with each new Christmas toy they give to every child who is less fortunate in the hope that they grow up to be successful leaders in their communities.
“I’m very grateful that all these families get to receive gifts for their children, because not everyone can afford gifts to give,” said Samantha Castro who was a volunteer.
As mentioned on the Web site, Toys for Tots began in 1947 when a group gathered together in L.A. and collected and distributed 5,000 toys to needy children and, since 1948, the United States Marines Corps Reserve, along with sponsors and volunteers, have conducted successful nationwide campaigns. Arvin, Bakersfield, Delano, Frazier Park, Lamont and Shafter are all cities able to receive gifts for their children, but the families have to apply in advance. Toys for Tots provides presents for children who are10 years of age and younger; these kids will receive their gifts before Christmas.
“I like to donate what I can, because I feel that this is just wonderful; it brings happiness and provides joy to all the children in our community who get gifts,” said Kathy White who donated gifts for the charity.
Many locations around Bakersfield have helped the Marine Corps Reserve with allowing people to drop off their donations at their sites, such as Toys R Us, Home and Leisure Inc., The Springs Apartments, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, Sephora, Reading Cinemas, T-mobile, Sara Lee Bakery Co. and other local businesses.
Brian Hill, Sara Lee’s employer, works at a drop off site for the charity and said, “We like helping out charities, and I think this one is a great cause because it’s for our children”.
Mother Sara Gutierrez explained with tears of joy how this charity has affected her family and other people she knows.
“I am so thankful to the marines,” she said, “because they have always done their best to not only serve our country but to also make our children happy and give them presents for Christmas. Times are hard and I can’t afford gifts for my babies so I’m very thankful.” Toys for Tots happens every year, and those who would like to apply for the following year can do so by picking up an application from a local Human Services Department.