Toys for tots. How does it work?

Question

I don't have any children, but have always wondered about what qualifies a person for Toys for Tots. I am always leary of donating to any organization because I think there are a lot of able bodied people that just are lazy and expect others to just give them everything. It seems that way in my area anyways. I used to work with a young mom that would brag about not having to shop due to the free toys from Toys for tots. I drive by the warehouse where they are giving them away and there are hundreds of people in line.

What does one have to do to apply and qualify for gifts?

Is there a limit to how many toys they can take?

Is it a first come first serve kind of line?

I have plenty of money to give away to the less fortunate at Christmas, but I don't want my generosity to be abused.

I'm aware how you go about donating, but can anyone just say they need toys or do they screen the people to make sure that there is a real need for assistance?

Answer 1

Hi, this is how toys for tots work.
First, you take this amount of money and buy a lot of toddler toys. Then you find an area that says "donate toys for tots here!" or something like that, something including "toys for tots here!" on a sign. Go inside where the sign says to drop off donations and you drop it off in a container (usually a basket).
I hope you do good and donate toys for tots! =D

Answer 2

To apply for toys go to:
agency request: https://www.toysfortots.com/tftforms
in person: 715 Broadway Street, MCA Annex , Suite 300, Quantico, VA 22134
by mail: Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, P.O. Box 1947, Quantico, VA 22134
by phone: [phone]
by email: [e-mail]

There isn't a posted limit to the toys a child can receive, but the goal is to give the child a toy, implying that needy children can expect volunteers and marines to find them a (one) shiny new toy.

Although there isn't always a line...when one forms that (first come first serve) would be a logical progression. However if a volunteer or marine knew of a child that had a particular interest than on a case by case basis such needs could be fulfilled.

Since you don't have kids, perhaps just purchasing new toys that you feel a child can enjoy will be better than a cash donation. Any time a child gets a toy, think of the happiness you've brought them. This is amongst the finest charity programs that has a great deal of integrity.

They also note that donations are tax deductible.

Answer 3

Honestly, I believe in giving needy kids direct help--non-material related. Toys for Tots is well-intentioned, but I don't think they should encourage the idea that material possessions make people happier. Why not host a big Christmas dinner with the kids? Why not unite them with a family for the holidays?

I'm sorry, I know I didn't really answer your question, but hopefully you can consider other options too. I'm not sure how Toys for Tots works, but you got some pretty thorough answers from others.

Answer 4

interesting but oddly over-thought. i don't think the lazy parents are keeping the toys so the kids are getting them but i see your point. other than going home with these people to make sure they aren't abusing your "generosity", you can either find another charity that's not so complicated to you or keep all of your money to yourself and continue to contemplate the real problems of the world such as this.