Charleston SC
About Toys for Tots

Local About Us - Charleston Toys for Tots

Our Legacy: From Humble Beginnings to Nationwide Impact

The story of Toys for Tots began in 1947 in Los Angeles when Major Bill Hendricks, USMCR, was inspired by his wife Diane. She had crafted a homemade Raggedy Ann doll and wished to donate it to a child in need but found no organization to facilitate her heartfelt gesture. Taking matters into their own hands, Major Hendricks and a group of Marine reservists, including Lieutenant Colonel John Hampton, collected 5,000 toys for local children that year, with collection bins strategically placed outside Warner Bros. movie theaters.

The success of their initiative led to the national launch of Toys for Tots in 1948. With the support of Warner Brothers Studio, Walt Disney and his team designed our iconic red toy train logo, and a theme song was penned by Sammy Fain and Paul Francis Webster, later recorded by legends like Nat King Cole and Peggy Lee.

Evolving with Time

Until 1979, Marine reservists and volunteers collected and refurbished used toys. However, from 1980 onwards, only new toys were accepted to ensure the safety and quality of the gifts. In 1991, the program was officially recognized as a nonprofit charity foundation, and by 1995, Toys for Tots became an official mission of the Marine Corps Reserve.

Recognizing the need to reach communities without a Marine reservist presence, in 1996, local organizations were authorized to assist in toy collection and distribution.

Presidential Support and Celebrity Endorsements

In 2009, First Lady Michelle Obama championed our cause, placing the first collection box at the White House. Over the years, numerous celebrities have shown their support. Notably, in 2022, the Backstreet Boys made a generous donation inspired by the young band First Day of School, who had raised funds for the charity.

Expanding Our Reach

Today, Toys for Tots has grown beyond the holiday season. Our Literacy Program aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing books to children in low-income neighborhoods. Additionally, our Native American Program collaborates with the Navajo Nation's Navajo Literacy Program to donate toys and books to children on participating remote Reservations.

Our Mission

At the heart of our efforts is a simple yet profound mission: "To collect new unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children at Christmas." Our goal is to "deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, and patriotic citizens."

In Charleston, we are proud to be a part of this incredible journey, ensuring that every child in our community feels the warmth and joy of the holiday season.

Join Us in Our Mission

Located at 4229 Domino Avenue, North Charleston SC, 29405 we welcome all to be a part of our mission. Whether you wish to donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word, every gesture counts.

For more details, contact:

Name: CPL Creasy, Brandon
Phone: TBD
Email: charleston.sc@toysfortots.org
Together, let's spread joy, one toy at a time.