Letter to the Editor - Thanks for work with Toys for Tots

As 2020 comes to a close, I’d like to reflect on the generosity of the Havre community. This year was the third Toys for Tots Campaign for the Havre area. We served 80 children this year; a 10 percent increase from 2019. Given all of the uncertainties the year brought us, I’m grateful for the unwavering commitment of the businesses and individuals that support the cause each year.

Independence Bank, Bergren Transmission and Pacific Steel and Recycling are loyal partners that have kept the drive going since the beginning. New participants included: Havre Ford, Holden’s Hot Wheels, Koefod Agency, Lodestar Land and Home, Naturopathic Medical Doctor Jerry Taylor and Hi-Line Rental. Havre Daily News and New Media Broadcasters faithfully help me spread the word of the event each year. Many thanks to each of these businesses for volunteering in a multitude of ways.

This year, we were blessed with a special surprise. Unbeknownst to me, Travis Myers hosted a shoot to benefit the program.  The amount of toys that came from this event alone was nearly half of our toys this year! As always, we were short on toys for the older children (ages 12-18). Luckily, Myers was able to provide a significant contribution for that age group which made a profound impact on the success of the program this year.

As Toys for Tots continues to expand in Havre, so does the responsibility that goes along with it. I was blessed to have Marianne and Harvey Capellen offer graciously to assist with drop off locations and transportation of toys.  Last, but far from least, thank you to the individuals that donated to the campaign. None of this is possible without you. It’s through people like you that a meaningful difference is made in the lives of others.

With gratitude,

Jennifer Tilleman

Havre