This Holiday Season, Toys for Tots Needs the American Public’s Help to Bring Joy to Millions of Children
“Every child deserves the magic of Christmas. When someone gives selflessly, they restore hope, dignity, and joy. That kind of kindness creates a ripple effect that lasts far beyond the holiday season.” LtGen Laster.
As the holiday season approaches, millions of children across America face the prospect of waking up to nothing on Christmas morning. Their families, struggling with financial hardship, simply cannot afford toys or gifts. But thanks to Toys for Tots, led by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, hope arrives for these children—one toy at a time.

Since 1947, Toys for Tots has reached over 314 million children in need. In 2024 alone, the Program distributed over 30 million toys, books, and games to nearly 13 million children in need across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The mission is simple: collect new, unwrapped toys and distribute them to disadvantaged children. Nearly 900 local chapters—powered by Marines, civilian Coordinators, volunteers, Corporate Partners, and everyday citizens—work tirelessly to ensure every child experiences the joy of Christmas.

With this year's economic challenges, families are struggling more than ever and the need for help remains urgent. Local chapters are stepping up to meet the demand—from toy drives at stores and offices to corporate sponsorships and community events, every contribution helps brighten a child’s holiday.

Among the thousands of donors who support this mission, there are stories that illuminate what's possible when generosity becomes a way of life. In San Diego County, a mystery has unfolded that has echoed that message for nearly ten years.

Over the past seven Novembers, two Marine Corps trucks have arrived at Geppetto’s Toys in Carlsbad, CA and leave filled with over $100,000 worth of toys, all purchased by a single anonymous donor. The Marines don't know him. The toy store staff doesn't know him. Even Toys for Tots doesn't know him. His identity remains a secret. He seeks no recognition. He simply wants to carve out moments of joy for children who might otherwise wake up to nothing on Christmas morning.

This quiet benefactor has donated more than $750,000 in toys. But the true impact isn’t measured in dollars—it’s in the smiles of children and the relief of parents who know their child hasn’t been forgotten.

But here's what matters most: this anonymous donor or Secret Santa isn't alone. Across America, countless donors—known and unknown—are writing their own stories of generosity through Toys for Tots. Some donate a single toy. Others organize drives at their workplaces. Some volunteer their time sorting and distributing gifts. Each act of giving, regardless of size, joins with others to create something magical: a nationwide movement ensuring that every child will experience joy this Christmas.

Our supporters don’t need to fill two Marine trucks to make a difference. One toy. One book. One game. One act of kindness can tell a child: "You matter. You are seen. You are loved."

This holiday season, let the story of the anonymous donor be an inspiration. Heroes don’t always wear capes—sometimes they simply show up, year after year, to make the world brighter for children in need.

Visit www.toysfortots.org today to learn how you can help keep the magic alive this Christmas.

Media Contact

Company Name:
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

Contact Person:
Ted Silvester, Vice President of Marketing and Development

Email:

Phone:
(703) 649-2021

City:
Triangle

State:
Virginia

Country:
United States

Website:

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