Article and photos by Pamela A. Moore,
Harvey C. Noone Toys for Tots Chair
Seven years ago, the Harvey C. Noone Legion Post # 954 in Churchville began collecting toys for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign. Donations grew steadily each year. Last year they added community partners to serve as collection sites and donations doubled.
This year’s results were again record-breaking – donations tripled. The retail value of 2021 donations exceeded $6,000. Donations ranged from a thoughtfully chosen book to six new bicycles. A Legionnaire, Marine, and Churchville Volunteer Fireman made a collection box for the firehouse. A mom asked that, in lieu of gifts for her child, birthday party guests bring a toy or book for Toys for Tots. Groups of friends and families, as well as the Legion Auxiliary and Genesee County Master Gardeners, adopted it as a service project. These are but a few examples of how, together, the community achieved this overwhelming success. Hundreds of generous people whose hearts were touched by this appeal donated toys and books for over 650 children.
Jake’s Pub in North Chili, Master Gardeners of Genesee County, Newman Riga Library, and the Town of Riga all partnered with the Legion Family to serve as collection sites and the Village of Churchville assisted with advertising. Without their enthusiastic support, these results would not have been possible.
On behalf of the children who will receive these gifts, thank you and Merry Christmas!
