Every year from October to December, the U.S. Marine Corps holds a drive that helps collect new toys to help bring happiness to the less fortunate children in the community.

Karen Hernandez, a coordinator for the Toys for Tots program in the Richfield/Bath area, contacts interested locations, drops off boxes, answers questions, and helps with the pickup of all the boxes with the Marines. She explained how the drive is organized in the Richfield/Bath area.

“Members of the community drop new, unwrapped toys in collection boxes positioned in local businesses. Coordinators pick up these toys and store them in central warehouses where the toys are sorted by age and gender. At Christmas, coordinators with the assistance of local social welfare agencies, church groups, and other local community agencies, distribute the toys to the less fortunate children of the community,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez explained what happens after the toys are collected.

“Boxes are placed, unwrapped new toys are dropped off, Marines pick up the toys and they are distributed locally in the county where they were donated to children in need to give them hope during the holidays. Whether they celebrate, Kwanzaa, Christmas or Hanukkah, it is given to kids who need to keep their chin up and for families that cannot afford to give the gift of joy at this time of year,” Hernandez said.

Mike Murphey, the head coach of the RHS football team and a high school guidance counselor, commented on how long the football team has been a part of the drive, and their reasons for participating.

“[Participation] has been happening since coach Cistone was the head coach more than ten years ago. [The team participates] because [the drive] is an excellent reminder for us of the importance of giving back,” Murphey said.

Jeffrey Fry, an American History teacher who has contributed for seven years, added why he likes the drive and why he participates.

“I love the program, because our military is doing great things in our community and need citizens’ support. Because the Hernandez family is so active and involved, it is easy for me to support such a great cause,” Fry said.

Hernandez added why she is involved with the drive.

“I have always enjoyed working with the Richfield, Bath and Revere communities as they are so generous in their spirit and donations for this program. It is my best Christmas gift every year to see the full truck pull away knowing our community has helped to put a smile and a glimmer of hope into the lives of about 56,000 children who need it,” Hernandez said.

Toys for Tots will take place this November through December in hope of bringing joy for the children of our community.