Toys for Tots collection under way
State Farm Insurance is partnering with Toys for Tots to collect gifts in Lee and Collier counties.
Now through Dec. 6, State Farm agents in both counties are opening their offices to serve as drop-off locations for new, unwrapped toys to help bring Christmas cheer to the less fortunate.
Organizer Judy Bowler said Friday that all Walgreens also now have collection boxes for toys.
She said the response in the community has, so far, been good, and she’s anticipating people stepping up again this year to help out those in need.
“This is a generous community,” Bowler said. “They know people are in need.”
Bowler is suggesting that businesses collect gifts for kids instead of exchanging presents internally during Christmas parties as another way to give back.
All toys or money donated are given to local kids.
“All the money and toys stays here in Lee County,” Bowler said.
Toys For Tots does not give the toys to kids directly, instead utilizing the Salvation Army’s Christmas Cheer program to distribute.
Bowler is urging all families interested in participating in the program to sign up immediately by calling the Salvation Army at 278-1551.
Toys for Tots boxes can be found throughout the county at various locations, such as the Cape Coral Breeze and the Cape Coral Eye Care Center.
The US Postal Service’s toy drive is also coming on Dec. 4, when all you have to do is leave a new, unwrapped toy by your mailbox and the letter carrier will pick it up for you.
There are also a number of special events coming up dedicated to collecting toys for the needy. The full list is available online at Fort-Myers-Fl.ToysforTots.org.
For more information, contact Bowler at 699-8121.