MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Four Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point’s Single Marine Program volunteered to collect donations for Toys for Tots during the New Bern Singles Club Seniors’ Dance at the New Bern Knights of Columbus facility Nov. 16.
During the volunteer event, the Marines collected more than 150 new, unwrapped toys that will later be distributed to area families to ensure hundreds of local children have a merrier Christmas.
“We filled four very large boxes and had gifts that wouldn’t fit into a box, like two bikes and a toddler tooter scooter rider,” said Janet M. O’Grady, a member of the New Bern Singles Club board of directors. “We are thrilled for the success of our event and will sponsor the Toys for Tots event again next year at the New Bern Single’s Club.”
Toys for Tots is a Marine Corps Reserve Program designed to benefit underprivileged families during the holiday season by collecting new, unwrapped toys for distribution.
“I honestly believe taking part in events of this nature brings great credit upon the Marines, the base and the entire Marine Corps,” said Cpl. Miguel J. Robert, a bulk fuel specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274. “I believe this shows that not only can we do our assigned jobs in the military, but we can also take time out of our busy schedule to give back to the community no matter how big or small the event.”
The Marines were pleased with the turnout and would recommend this volunteer opportunity to any Marine looking to give back.
“I must say the turnout was great and the toys being turned in were even greater,” said Robert.
The program and the Marines were both successful in meeting goals and performing to the club’s expectations, according to O’Grady.
“We want to thank the Single Marine Program for providing young Marines and support personnel to go out into the community to give their time to collect and distribute these toys to families in need throughout our region,” said O’Grady.
Volunteer opportunities arranged by the SMP allow Marines to serve the community and allow community members to see Marines in action.
Marines from several units at Cherry Point said they are looking forward to volunteering with Toys for Tots this year. The SMP connects service members with volunteer opportunities during their off duty time, according to Robert.
The next SMP Toys for Tots volunteer opportunities are scheduled for Nov. 29 and Dec. 15 at the New Bern Bear Plaza. For those who wish to donate to the program, donation boxes are placed at various locations throughout the community.
For more information, or to volunteer with Toys for Tots through the Single Marine Program, call (252) 466-3027.