The idea of the Toys for Tots began in 1947 at the helm of Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks. Major Hendricks’ wife, Diane, was the inspiration behind the Program; after she asked Major Hendricks to deliver a few handcrafted dolls to an agency that supported children in need. When Major Hendricks reported back to his wife that he could not find an agency for the handcrafted dolls, Diane encouraged her husband to “start one”! which he did.
For over seven decades, the Program has evolved and grown exponentially having delivered hope and the magic of Christmas to over 281 million less fortunate children. Now, in our 77th year, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program also provides support year-round to disadvantaged children experiencing challenges and exceptional circumstances, thus sending a message of hope beyond the holiday season.
ON LINE APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ON OCTOBER 1, 2024
LAST DATE TO SIGN UP FOR TOYS IS NOVEMBER 30, 2024
Welcome to the Rice County Toys for Tots Program Web Page. Our goal is to provide a child in need a new toy at Christmas. The generosity of the community and the Toys for Tots Foundation make this all possible. Last Year 774 children received a new toy at Christmas. Qualification to apply for the Toys for Tots program, families must live in Rice County and 1) be on assistance from Rice County Social Services; 2) have a child enrolled in the Three Rivers Head Start Program; or 3) be on the WIC Program.
Children ages 6-months to 14 years qualify.
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-pofit public charity is the fund raising, funding and support organization for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The Foundation was created at the behest of the U.S. Marine Corps and provides support in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, who directs the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The Foundation has supported Toys for Tots since 1991.
The mission of U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children at Christmas.
Rice County Toys for Tots Program is ran with the help of Cannon Valley Detachment, Marine Corps League and Rice County Social Services. This years program will begin:
Tuesday October 1, 2024 - Applications can be found on line at:
faribault-mn.toysfortots.org
We will start accepting applications on, October 1, 2024. Applicants will be notified by e-mail of the date and time to pick up toys for their children.
Distribution for 2024 will be located at the Faribault Eagles Lodge #1460: 2027 Grant Street, Faribault, MN 55021 on December 17th and December 18th, 2024.
Parents are reminded that once your application is submitted if you have not heard a response within 15 days you are to contact the Toys for Tots Coordinator at faribault.mn@toysfortots.org.
Wishing all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Matthew Truman - Coordinator