Believing that the true spirit of the holidays lies in giving rather than receiving, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell is sponsoring the Registry’s 16th Annual U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots drive.

“The Registry of Deeds is proud to partner with the United States Marine Corps Reserve to help deliver a happy Christmas to children this holiday season,” Register O’Donnell said. “This act of kindness can help spread joy and make a positive impact on those in need. Those engaging in this selfless act can know that they are part of what makes this time of year so special and hopefully inspire others to do the same.”

Donations of new toys and games for toddlers and children up to age 10 can be brought directly to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds building, 649 High St. in Dedham, through Friday, December 8, 10 a.m. A marked donation bin will be set up in the lobby, which is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

“The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve plays a vital role in ensuring that donated toys reach children in need during the holiday season,” Register O’Donnell said. “Their dedication and commitment to the goal of making sure no child goes without a present on Christmas is truly commendable. We thank the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and all our military personnel for their dedication and service to our country.”

This year marks the 76th anniversary of Toys for Tots. The program was established in 1947 when the wife of a Marine major wanted to donate a Raggedy Ann doll for Christmas but couldn’t find an organization to accept it. Since then, the national program has delivered over 652 million toys.

 

“Every holiday season, the Registry witnesses firsthand the many acts of kindness and Christmas spirit as numerous people drop off gifts for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots drive,” Register O’Donnell said. “It’s truly wonderful to see so many people dropping off gifts, from Registry employees, to title examiners, to attorneys, and members of the general public. Because no family should have to struggle to enjoy their holiday season.”

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program’s mission is to help less fortunate children experience the joy and happiness associated with Christmas. The program operates in more than 800 cities and towns throughout all 50 states.

“We can’t possibly do this without the support of the local community, and seeing people come out to donate means everything,” Staff Sgt. Andrew Fetrow, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines said. “By doing an event like this, you get to witness the best side of people and know that these donations are going to give children, who might not otherwise have had the opportunity, a happy Christmas.”

Since 2007, the Registry of Deeds has collected over 1,600 toy donations for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.