Toys for Tots accepting applications, looking for volunteers

Thanks to Toys for Tots of Northern York County, more than 1,600 area children received gifts during last year’s holiday season.

In December 2020, Toys for Tots Northern York County distributed nearly 10,200 gifts to children from infants to 17-years-old in Arundel, Biddeford, Buxton, Dayton, Hollis, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Limington, Lyman, Old Orchard Beach and Saco.

Parents who wish to sign up to receive toys for their children can do so online now until Dec. 8. Parents can only receive presents through one local holiday gift giving program, and applications to Toys for Tots are cross-referenced with other organizations.

Gifts will be distributed at the former Planet Fitness space at the Five Points Shopping Center at 420 Alfred St. in Biddeford on Dec. 13 and Dec. 14. Parents are instructed to come at a designated time slot to avoid overcrowding. Once there, they will be paired with a volunteer who will guide them through the distribution center as they choose items from organized displays of brand-new toys.

“It’s a great feeling to see parents come in and then leave able to put something under the tree for their children,” said Toys for Tots volunteer Peg Pothier.

Toys for Tots of Northern York County is completely volunteer run and relies on donations to fulfill its mission. The organization is currently looking for volunteers to help at the distribution center. It is also accepting donations of new toys as well as money, which helps fill in the gaps when collecting gift items. Those interested in volunteering or donating can email saco.me@toysfortots.org.

Bean Supper

Toys for Tots Northern York County plans on hosting a bean supper in conjunction with the Saco Holiday Festival on Dec. 3. The organization has a sponsor to make the bean supper but needs a venue to hold it. Anyone willing to donate the use of a local venue can email saco.me@toysfortots.org.

Toys for Tots Northern York County is a local branch of Toys for Tots, a nonprofit organization celebrating its 75th anniversary. It began in 1947 by Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks and his wife Diane. Nationwide, Marine Toys for Tots Program distributes an average of 18 million toys to 7 million less fortunate children annually.

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.