From small towns to major cities, the Marine Toys for Tots Program provided support throughout 2025—distributing toys, books, and other gifts through initiatives such as the Literacy Program, Foster Care Program, Disaster Response and Recovery Program, and their annual Holiday Campaign. These efforts reflect the belief that compassion doesn’t follow a calendar, and that children deserve comfort, joy, and encouragement in every season of the year.
In the spring and summer months, Toys for Tots partnered with other non‑profits to host special distributions that brought hope to disadvantaged children during times when support was needed most. Whether offering emotional comfort to children whose families were impacted by natural disasters, providing resources to children navigating the Foster Care System, or distributing educational books and resources to Title I funded schools, the Program ensured that its mission extended beyond Christmastime. Each distribution was more than an event—it was a reminder to children that they are valued, remembered, and cared for by members of their communities.
During their annual Holiday Campaign, which serves as the cornerstone of these year-round efforts, local chapters worked tirelessly to collect donations, organize events, and provide gifts for disadvantaged children. Marines, civilian Coordinators, and volunteers joined forces with schools, churches, civic groups, and community organizations to ensure that every child had at least one gift to open on Christmas morning. Toys for Tots is still finalizing their 2025 Holiday Campaign results, but early totals are already showing they are on track to reach nearly 11 million children in need.
These grassroots efforts transformed gymnasiums into toy warehouses, parking lots into distribution centers, and local businesses into hubs of generosity. The sights and sounds of these moments—rows of toys, families gathering with anticipation, and volunteers working shoulder to shoulder—captured the true spirit of the season and demonstrated the power of communities united in kindness.
"The compassion and commitment we witnessed last year were truly inspiring," said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. "Each contribution—whether a single toy or a large donation—brought hope to children facing difficult circumstances. Our supporters’ continued generosity is what makes our mission possible, and for that, we are profoundly grateful."
As Toys for Tots continues in 2026, the Program renews its pledge to turn compassion into action.
"Throughout 2026, our mission will remain clear: generosity must extend beyond the holiday season," Lieutenant General Laster continued. "Through the collective efforts of our donors and volunteers, Toys for Tots will continue to bring joy and hope to children nationwide—one toy, one smile, and one heart at a time."
To learn more about Toys for Tots or to make a donation, please visit www.toysfortots.org.
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Media Contact
Company Name: Marine Toys for Tots Foundation
Contact Person: Ted Silvester, Vice President of Marketing and Development
Email: Send Email
Phone: (703) 649-2021
City: Triangle
State: Virginia
Country: United States
Website: https://www.toysfortots.org/
