Toys for Tots distributes Christmas bounty

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Times are tough for so many families, and that means the possibility of doing without some things many of us take for granted at Christmas. But Toys for Tots makes sure needy children will have something under tree.

Parents lined up outside a Wilmington warehouse today to pick up toys. Inside, it’s like you just entered Santa’s workshop full of presents of all kinds. There are bikes and all sorts of toys. Elves running everywhere putting things together. But you need no money to shop here. It is all courtesy of Toys for Tots. Mike Gautier heads up the effort in Wilmington.

“We will probably distribute to over 3,000 children here today and tomorrow,” Gautier said. “We still have men out there collecting toys. We will be bringing them in all the way up to the 19th. We also have five other charities locally that we distribute toys through.”

The lines outside the distribution center were long, and with the cold temperatures folks were happy to get inside for warmth and Christmas cheer.

For many in these tough times it was a chance to brighten Christmas in their homes.

“They are awesome,” said one woman, who did not want to give her name. “That’s really good. I bought him some stuff, but this just made it like the icing on the cake. It’s awesome.”

An awesome experience that makes sure children won’t miss out on the traditional fun of opening presents Christmas day.

The Marine Corps Reserves has been helping make the season bright for 63 years through Toys for Tots.

It’s not too late to help. You can drop off toys at WWAY at 615 North Front Street in Downtown Wilmington through Friday.