By Andrea Fernandes
Associate Editor
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as empty boxes sit and await Toys for Tots to fill them.
Toys for Tots is a program that allows people to donate toys, which are distributed to children in need on Christmas morning.
The program is run by the United States Marine Corps and was founded in 1947, said Deeanna Welling, a junior psychology major.
Welling participated in Toys for Tots for the first time last year. After learning about the program’s mission, Welling said she was eager to participate and plans to participate again this year.
“It was a lot of fun,” Welling said. “It’s always a good feeling to donate to those in need. During Black Friday, I went to Toys ‘R’ Us and loaded my car with toys that were on sale.”
Welling added that purchasing toys was not a burden on her wallet, and she was able to purchase decent ones on sale for only $5.
“I think Toys for Tots is a great program,” said Gabrielle Hurley, a junior finance major. “It’s nice to think that we can make the difference in a child’s life. No child should have to wake up on Christmas morning to nothing because the family’s finances are low.”
Senior Nicole Dailey is another supporter of the program. Being an elementary education major, Dailey often interacts with children in the community while working at the local elementary school. After working so closely with children in the community, Dailey said she encourages students to understand the importance of giving, especially to children.
“Toys for Tots is a good program that brings joy to all of the less-fortunate kids whose parents can’t afford extra things like toys on Christmas,” said Dailey. “The program really keeps the joy of childhood for these kids. It gives them hope and shows them that there is love in the world.”
Gregory Privitera, Ph.D., a psychology professor, is running the program here again this year, as he did last year.
Chernice Miller, a senior theater and journalism and mass communication major, said that she participates in Toys for Tots at her church in New York City and thus decided to participate on campus
“My favorite part about Toys for Tots is playing with the kids,” she said. “I think it’s nice to see the love they have for toys and play. Play is a nature we, as adults, don’t get to indulge in. It makes me feel young and carefree.”
Everyone is welcome to donate as many or as little toys as he or she would like. Those interested in donating can stop by De La Roche 100E, or contact Privitera at gprivite@my.sbu.edu.
fernanal13@bonaventure.edu
