Well, I can’t believe this will be our 27th year collecting toys for the US Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. Time seems to go by so quickly and the need seems to grow each year. For as long as I can remember, I have always felt the need to help others, especially children. I knew I had a chance to make a difference when myself and my best friend Jim Fitzsimmons decided to collect toys for those in need instead of celebrating our joint birthday of Dec 18th.

Being that our birthday is one week before Christmas, what better time to gather family, friends and our community to come together on one night to help others all the while spreading good cheer? In light of all the tragedies our country has endured this year, now is our chance to make a difference. We come together to support our troops and to make Christmas morning bright for children throughout the community. Let’s not just say “good will toward men” let’s prove it.

How Can You Help? Here’s How:

We collect toys for children 16 years old and younger. However, our teenagers seem to be the most in need every year. When shopping for gifts, please keep them in mind.

While our event takes place in Connecticut, local communities across the country can get involved. If you live in New Haven county, please join our collection party.

With Black Friday coming up, several retailers have great bargains: Wal-Mart, Big Lots and Kohl’s all have sales on new toys. However, check Cyber Monday deals on Amazon and other retailers for great deals. Please consider donating and unwrapped toy on December 14, 2017 at Gaetano’s Tavern on Main in Wallingford, CT.