The Christmas season is well underway. Families are picking their favorite holiday films to watch for movie night, department stores are adorned with festive decor, wish lists have been mailed to Santa, churches are holding seasonal programs, and people are crossing off names on their to-buy-for shopping lists.

Some individuals may also have another errand to complete during this time — purchasing a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.

According to the main Toys for Tots website, “Toys for Tots began in 1947 as the brain child of Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks. Actually, it was his wife, Diane, who was the real inspiration. She had a few handcrafted dolls and asked Bill to deliver them to an agency that supports children in need.

“When Bill reported back to his wife that he could not find such an organization, she instructed him to start one. Hendricks and the Marines in his reserve unit in Los Angeles collected and distributed 5,000 toys in 1947. Seeing such successful community engagement in 1947, the commandant directed all Marine Reserve sites to implement a TFT campaign, transforming it into a national community action program in 1948.

“The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charity, was established in 1991 at the behest of the Marine Corps to help run and support the Marine Toys for Tots program. The foundation raises funds, purchases toys, provides promotional and support materials, manages all funds raised and donated, solicits corporate support, educates the public and handles day-to-day operations.”

There are local chapter Toys for Tots websites — including Lehigh Valley, covering Lehigh and Northampton counties. It lists several drop-off locations, three of which are Whitehall Township Public Library, 3700 Mechanicsville Road; Moore Elementary School, 2835 Mountain View Drive; and North Catasauqua Borough Hall, 1066 Fourth St. These locations, which have partnered with Marine Corps Reserve, will accept toys through Dec. 16.

To view the full list of sites, visit the Lehigh Valley Toys for Tots website.

“All funds donated here stay in the Lehigh Valley,” the local chapter website states.

Last year, 126,435 toys were distributed, and 29,015 children were supported in the Lehigh Valley. Those numbers are outstanding. It is uplifting to me to know there are many giving individuals in our area who open their hearts and wallets to help kids receive gifts for Christmas.

I know some people are facing a difficult time with finances right now. If that is you, but you still have the desire to help this program, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. As an avid thrifter, I often see brand-new, unopened toys available. Purchasing a toy this way could cost you under $10, sometimes even under $5.

As the holiday season nears, I wish all a very joyful time with family and friends. Continue to share your love and kindness.

Stacey Koch

editorial assistant

Whitehall-Coplay Press

Northampton Press

Catasauqua Press