Toys for Tots drive underway in Havre

The U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program is back in Havre for the fourth year, continuing a successful drive to bring toys to children in the area.

Local organizer Jennifer Tilleman said in an email that the drive helped 80 children last year, a 10 percent increase from 2019.

She said people can contact The Salvation Army in Havre to apply for the program, which collects and provides toys for children from zero years through age 18.

“We are special because we are the only local program that will provide gifts to children ages 13-18 as long as they are in school and still living at home,” Tilleman said. “Because of this, donations are always needed for the older children, more so than the younger kids.

“It’s a lot of fun to shop for the younger children, but harder to find something for teens,” she added. “Many teen gifts these days center around electronics. This is difficult because we have no idea if the children have access to internet or what type of phone they have, if any. However, looking back in time, kids had fun way before technology made things difficult. When we shop for them we try to find sporting goods such as basketballs, footballs, fishing poles, et cetera. Other ideas include cologne sets, ear phones, craft sets, board games for older kids/adults, et cetera.”

Tilleman said the program cannot to accept used toys and asks for new and unwrapped toys and presents only.

The Toys for Tots program also asks people to refrain from donating clothing; the program’s focus is on toys.

She added that any monetary donations must be made payable to Toys for Tots and cash and gift cards cannot be accepted.

Donations can be dropped off at one of six different locations: Edward Jones, Independence Bank, Havre Ford, Hi-Line Rental, Pacific Steel and Recycling, and Bergren Transmission

The last day to donate at those locations is Dec. 15, she added.