Local generosity highlighted during last day of Toys for Tots program
By: Morgan Thomas
Updated: December 14, 2012
Thousands of local children will wake up Christmas morning to presents under the tree thanks to the generosity of the ArkLaTex.
Everyone has a reason to chip in.
"My son is going to the marines in January and I think it's a great cause," said Tina Phillips, dropped off donation.
The local Marine Corps Reserves' Toys for Tots program brings out the best in people this time of year.
"Just glad to help out. Can't imagine - I have three grandkids and they don't want for anything," said Linda Edwards, dropped of donation.
Nbc 6, along with our partner, Cumulus Radio, took over the Bossier City Wal-Mart parking lot, for the final push for donations.
"Being with I97.3 we got to do something for the community. I like to do things for kids, too, because kids are so important," said The" Jeff Parker, I97.3.
Car after car pulled up to give what they could.
The community showed up in a big way for the grand finale, donating all kinds of toys - dolls, sports, stuff, and a bike - lots of cash, including a local business dropping off a thousand dollar check.
"The most surprising thing was yesterday... We had a trampoline. So somebody is going to walk away with a trampoline, how cool is that?" said Parker.
Everything collected will help local families put presents under the tree.
"We had over four thousand kids sign up for Toys for Tots. Then, our emergency distribution we're expecting another two or so," said Sergeant Anthony Shoemake, Marine Corps Reserves.
For many folks, Toys for Tots has become a tradition --- giving them a way to celebrate the season of sharing.
"There are a lot of kids out there who aren't as fortunate as mine... We just need to help them out," said Phillips.
"Warms my heart. Christmas is about giving, not receiving. The older you get the more realize that," said Edwards.
The Marine Corps Reserves will take all of the money donated to buy more toys this weekend.
They'll be distributing the toys to parents Tuesday and Wednesday. Emergency distribution is Thursday.
