“We plan to have every kid in the CNMI have a joy-filled holiday celebration come this December,” ASNMC president Maia Pangelinan said. “The Covid-19 pandemic has taken its toll on many families this year, and we ask our island community to band together to help those in need.”
Last year, more than 2,100 toys were collected in the CNMI and close to 8,100 from Guam, all going to over 5,300 children in Guam, Saipan, Rota and Tinian. While Toys for Tots is coordinated and organized by the Marine Corps, the ultimate success depends on the support of the local community and the generosity of the people who donate toys.
“We are so happy to be partnering with ASNMC this year as we continue the Toys 4 Tots Campaign through the U.S. Marine Corps,” Saipan Young Professionals chairman Shayne Villanueva said. “Over the years, the campaign continues to be successful thanks to the contributions of our business partners and community. This campaign is intended for our community and those in need, especially during these trying times, and we are excited to have the opportunity to do it again.”
Associated Students of Northern Marianas College vice president Victoria Matsunaga prepares a toy collection box which will be provided to business and organizational partners who sign up as a sponsor. Interested individuals who are looking to donate to the Toys for Tots program can drop off donations at any participating businesses. NMC photo
This year’s partners include Bank of Guam, Calvo’s Insurance, Latte Built, Lollipops, Pacifica Insurance, Bank of Saipan, Assurance Brokers, McDonald’s, and Triple J and its affiliates. ASNMC will be providing the donation boxes to all Toys for Tots partners. Those who are interested in becoming a partner can email [email protected] for more information.
Toys for Tots, a 73-year national charitable program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, provides happiness and hope to disadvantaged children during each Christmas holiday season through the gift of a new toy. The toys, books and other gifts collected and distributed by the Marines offer these children recognition, confidence and a positive memory for a lifetime. Last year the Marine Toys for Tots Program fulfilled the holiday hopes and dreams of 7.3 million less fortunate children in 800 communities nationwide by distributing 18.6 million toys. Since 1947 over 265 million children have been assisted and 584 million toys distributed. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org or email [email protected]
