Senator Marcellino (R- Syosset) recently named honorary vice chairman of The Annual US Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Campaign announces the campaign's kickoff in the Fifth Senate District. From now until Dec. 16, Senator Marcellino's district offices will be open to collect new unwrapped toys which the Marines will distribute to needy children at Christmas. Each person who drops off a toy at either the Huntington District Office at 386 New York Avenue or the Oyster Bay District Office at 250 Townsend Square will receive a Certificate of Appreciation from Senator Marcellino.

"One would be hard-pressed to find a more deserving cause this holiday season than the United States Marines 'Toy for Tots' Foundation. By supporting Toys for Tots, we can help children and families who are not as fortunate as we are, particularly during the holiday season, when they need it most. I am thrilled that I can help this worthwhile organization put a smile on a child's face," said Marcellino.

Created in the fall of 1947 in Los Angeles by Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks, Toys for Tots today, is one of the nation's flagship Christmas charitable endeavors. Over the past 55 years, Marines have distributed over 298 million toys to some 145 million needy children across the nation. In addition, 456 communities throughout the 50 states participate in local Toys for Tots campaigns. In many communities, Marines and those who support them can be found hard at work until late on Christmas Eve when they conclude their local campaign and return home to their own families.

At Christmas 2002, Marines collected and distributed over 12.9 million toys. With these toys Marines brought the joy of Christmas and a message of hope to over 5.7 million needy children nationwide. The goal for the 2003 Campaign is to reach more needy children than ever before. Everyone can help Marines achieve this goal. Simply drop off a new unwrapped toy at a Toys for Tots collection box nearest you and Marines will do the rest.