GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. -- The Twin Cities hosts one of the country's most successful Toys for Tots drives each year. This is because of the support from the generous community and the organization of the US Marines.
Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions regarding the Twin Cities Toys for Tots program.
Where can I make my donation?
The tent at KARE 11 will be open Fri., Dec. 2 - Mon., Dec. 19 from 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. daily. KARE 11 is located at 8811 Olson Memorial Hwy. in Golden Valley.
In addition to KARE 11, there are hundreds of drop off locations around the Twin Cities. The Marines have built a complete list of all drop off locations.
The Toys for Tots Warehouse will be located at 1010 Aldrin Drive, Eagan, MN 55121. It will be open 7 days a week from Nov. 28 - Dec. 22. The warehouse is open from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.
What kinds of toys are needed/accepted?
Toys are distributed to kids from 0 - 16. Typically, there is a shortage of toys for infants and teenagers.
Gift cards are accepted, but are not distributed as gifts. The Marines take donated gift cards and purchase gifts for the program.
Typically, the average gifts are in the $30 range. However, toys in all price ranges are accepted.
Where do I sign up to receive toys?
The Marines work with several organizations around the Twin Cities to distribute toys. The list of participating agencies is updated daily.
Check this list to find the closest agency to register with. You may also register through the Salvation Army through Dec. 8.
Only toy requests by family members with custodial responsibility are normally approved, other request are considered on a case by case basis. The age limit is 16 years old.
A child may only be registered through one charity organization. Multiple registrations by different family members, at different locations, are not allowed.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
At this time, all volunteer shifts at the tent and warehouse have been filled.
How do I get a Marine to attend our Toys for Tots event?
The Marines are grateful for the many events that happen around the Twin Cities to support Toys for Tots and try to support as many of them as possible. In the past, Marines have attended toy drives, Breakfast with Santa, company parties, and more.
If you have a Toys for Tots event that you are interested in having a Marine attend, contact Staff Sergeant Derek Cessor-Culver at toysfortotstwincitiesevents@gmail.com or 612-713-4840.
Please include all key details (date, time, location, etc.) in your request and include any special instructions or suggestions that might help with the planning process.
More information on the national Toys for Tots program can be found on the official Toys for Tots website.
(Copyright 2011 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)