2022 Toys for Tots Campaign commences

DEDEDO, Guam—Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Blaz is proud to announce the start of the 13th Toys for Tots campaign in Guam and eighth in the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands. Marines from MCB Camp Blaz delivered toy collection boxes during the first week of October to participating organizations and businesses. Toy collection will conclude on Dec. 10. 

Last year 6,239 toys were collected in Guam, going to children in need and spreading a message of happiness and hope during the holiday season. At the conclusion of the campaign, a total of 9,241 toys were distributed throughout the islands of Guam, Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. 

“The generosity and holiday spirit of our local community is what makes our local Toys for Tots campaign successful, and it would not have been possible without the continued support from everyone,” said Col. Christopher Bopp, the MCB Camp Blaz commanding officer. “I would like to personally thank and recognize all of our donors and partners for their generosity and look forward to seeing the impact we can make in this upcoming season.” 

“We are honored to partner with Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz on the Toys for Tots program,” said Catherine Castro, President of the Guam Chamber of Commerce. “We thank the community for their continued support of this special toy campaign that impacts the lives of so many children. Your generous gift contribution will leave a lasting impact on a child for years to come. Families with young children and older youth in need are encouraged to contact Catholic Social Service and the Salvation Army to sign their children up in time for toy distribution in December. Additionally, we are pleased to bring back the Toys for Tots High School Challenge MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BLAZ Communication Strategy & Operations E-Mail: Diann.Rosenfeld@fe.navy.mil and encourage all local high schools to consider participation. Winning schools in two prize categories will receive cash prizes for their school.” 

To participate and donate to Toys for Tots, bring a newly purchased, unwrapped toy to one of the many businesses or organizations who have volunteered to be drop-off locations. For a complete list of locations and important dates, please visit the Chamber’s website at GuamChamber.com.gu, the MCB Camp Blaz Facebook page, @MCBcampblaz, or Instagram page, @mcbcampblaz. For a list of locations on Saipan please contact the Saipan Chamber of Commerce at (670) 234-7150. 

“It’s amazing to be able to look back and to see how much the Toys for Tots program has grown and the impact we are able to make in the community,” said Maj. Diann Rosenfeld, the Toys for Tots Lead Coordinator for Guam and the CNMI. “Each year we are able to help more children in our area because of the increased participation from not only the individuals who donate, but also the businesses who serve as collection points across the island.” 

For families in need and would like to request toys please contact either the Salvation Army at (671) 477-9872 or Catholic Social Services at (671) 635-1442. 

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit charity with a 75-year history. Last year the Marine Toys for Tots Program fulfilled the holiday hopes and dreams of 8.8 million less fortunate children in over 800 communities nationwide by distributing 22.4 million toys. Since 1947 over 289 million children have been assisted and 627 million toys distributed. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org. (PR)