Assemblyman Bob Oaks is partnering with the Marine Corps Reserve to support Toys for Tots this holiday season. The assemblyman’s office at 10 Leach Road in Lyons will serve as a collection point for new, unwrapped toys from now until December 7th. These gifts will benefit needy children throughout Wayne and Seneca counties.
Drop-offs can be made between 9AM and 5PM weekdays. The office with be closed on November 22nd and 23rd for the Thanksgiving holiday.
“As a strong supporter of veterans and their families, I am glad to partner with the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program being organized by Clifford Wiley of Macedon,” Assemblyman Oaks said. “There are many people in this area who have trouble providing their children with gifts at holiday time; every child deserves to get something special that day.’’
Wiley said he is in contact with many agencies that provide services to families. To be eligible to receive toys, families must be able to show documented need for assistance. Toys for Tots provides the toys to the agencies, which then distribute them to the children, he said.
There is concern this year that there may be fewer toys available because of the bankruptcy of Toys ‘R Us, which has donated thousands of toys nationwide to the effort in previous years. Wiley said that Wayne County lost $8,000 because of the bankruptcy – that’s why local donations are more important than ever.
State Senator Pamela Helming is also a Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots sponsor this year and is collecting gifts at her office at 425 Exchange St. in Geneva. Those who find it more convenient may drop toys off there.
For more information, contact Assemblyman Oaks at 315-946-5166 or Clifford Wiley at 315-310-2540.
