Toys For Tots 2019
The Marine Corps League Table Rock Detachment #1197 and the Burke County United Way have partnered to collect and distribute toys during the holidays for more than a decade. Last year, Toys for Tots served 1,207 children in Burke County. That number seems to grow each year. This year, the age bracket for Toys for Tots has expanded, and we will be able to serve children from birth to end of 5th grade.
Dennis Brockland and Bob Vess, members of the Marine Corps League, have been involved with the program for 14 years.
“It is very gratifying to be blessed with good health and energy to help in this endeavor. We look forward to 2019 with expectations of helping our community again and to serve those who have need,” said Bob Vess, assistant organizer of Toys for Tots.
The Marine Corps League Detachment began in Morganton in 2005. At their very first meeting, Marine Bill Dowdle made a motion to take on the Toys for Tots program as one of their projects to serve Burke County, and the detachment has been very active in this project since that date.
“Working with Toys for Tots and other Marine Corps League endeavors allows me to give back what was given to me. I am where I am today because of my Marine experience,” said Dennis Brockland, lead organizer of Toys for Tots. “We are looking forward to a very good Christmas season and helping many families experience Christmas. Thanks to many, including United Way, we are confident we will succeed. God has blessed us all.”
Parents interested in applying for their children, aged birth to end of 5th grade, for Toys for Tots can sign up now through December 3, 2019 at toysfortots.org and click on “Find Your Local Campaign” to begin the short application process.
“Burke County United Way (BCUW) is excited to partner with the Marine Corps League Toys for Tots program. The program makes a meaningful difference to the families that receive toys, reducing financial strain on their budgets during the holidays,” said “Mo” Schwind, BCUW Executive Director.
For more information on Toys for Tots, contact Abigail Taylor at the Burke County United Way at info@bcuw.org.
