Local Toys for Tots helps over 13,000 children

After struggling for much of the season because of a lack of toys, the South-Central Kentucky US Marine Corps Toys For Tots Campaign was able to serve over 10,300 children.

“While things were rough with late toy shipments, lack of local monetary and toy donations, a shortage of volunteers, we were able to provide toys, books and stocking stuffers, to over 10,300 children for Whitley, Knox, Laurel & McCreary counties,” wrote campaign coordinator Greg Sims. “We were also able to provide for nearly 3,000 children outside of our campaign, in Floyd, Leslie and Breathitt Counties.”

The campaign distributed more than 25,000 toys, 30,000 books and numerous stocking stuffers that were delivered to children through the county by schools, a fire company, church groups and other social agencies.

Volunteer assistance was provided by Greenbriar Presbyterian Church, Souls Harbor Church, Salem Baptist Youth Group, the Whitley County Detention Center, Williamsburg Fire Department, Whitley County Motorcycle Group and individuals.