Toys for Tots gets start on annual campaign weeks ahead of schedule

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) – Toys for Tots is celebrating its 75th anniversary by getting an early start on its annual campaign.

The non-profit has been helping families in need since 1947, organizers said in spite of a very successful drive last year, the need was greater than the supply.

They’re urging community members and businesses who plan to participate this year to put out their collection boxes now.

Volunteers will deliver them and pick them up when full at any location throughout the region.

Volunteer Terri Anderess said those who need collection boxes can get them starting Wednesday.

“We are starting the initiative a little early, getting everybody energized, getting everybody started,” she said.  “As you know the economy is unknown right now, with inflation, with a recession.”

According to Anderess last year the organization fell short on donations.

“Last year was a hard year for us trying to the get the toy counts we needed to reach everyone in need,” she said.  “We figure if we start early people can start reaching out deciding how they want to help whether it’s with toys with my or volunteering. ”

According to Anderess all donations will stay here in the Cape Fear region.

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