The Toys for Tots Program is run by the U.S. Marine Corps. It's their premier community action program as well as the only charitable endeavor within the Department of Defense which reaches out to give something back to communities.
Over the past 53 years, the U.S. Marines have distributed over 272,000,000 toys to 133,000,000 needy children throughout the nation.
If you would like to donate a new, unopened toy you can drop it off at any Tampa area Toys R Us, Babies R Us, or Publix location. Many Burger King restaurants are also accepting donations, as are many of the Napa Auto Parts stores in the area. Or you can go directly to the Toys for Tots Warehouse (5121 W. Gandy Blvd Tampa, Fl. 33611) to drop off your toy or make a charitable monetary donation. Warehouse drop off hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you can’t make it to any of these drop off points, but would still like to donate, the U.S. Postal service will pick up a donation at homes in Manatee, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Hillsborough Counties on Saturday, December 3rd. Just have it ready for the postman to pick up when he or she arrives. For more information about the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program including a list of drop off locations in your area, visit their website at www.toysfortots.org.
Another great way to donate is the Stuff-A-Bus program appearing December 12th-17th at Westfield Brandon Town Center. you can drop off your toy and/or donation and stuff a bus full of toys for needy girls and boys. Run by Rat and Staypuff, nighttime DJs at 93.3 FLZ, the Stuff-A-Bus program doesn’t stop taking donations until they fill a Hartline bus from floor to ceiling. For more information, visit the Stuff-A-Bus Facebook page.
