Earlier this year, Toys for Tots organizers said due to the retirement of the coordinator, collection and distribution of Christmas gifts for children in the Lower Bucks County area, specifically the 19007 zip code, could be cancelled. In the nick of time, however, volunteers were recruited to take on the massive task, with new names and faces involved, causing confusion on some social media pages because the Bristol area is now a part of the Philadelphia collection and gift distribution center
The central and upper portions of the county had already been organized with a number of dedicated volunteers.
The Philadelphia campaign, including Bristol (19007) this year, is causing some confusion. Residents of the 19007 zip code are included in the Philadelphia campaign whereas residents of other municipalities in Bucks County are included in the Bucks County campaign’s website. More confusion increased when the 19007 residents thought they had to pick up gifts in Philadelphia.
Credit: Joanne Ames-LBS
And with locals on social media going as far as calling one of the Toys for Tots coordinators a scammer, the publication sought clarity and answers, so gifts could be collected and families seeking support from the organization that brings Christmas cheer to so many could receive it in time.
Marine Staff Sergeant Corey Toothman, the Philadelphia campaign coordinator, and volunteer “Jen Nicole” at a secure warehouse in Bristol Township on Monday allowed Lower Bucks Source to visit the collection center and then provided guidance for families seeking gift support.
Credit: Joanne Ames-LBS
For residential families (in need) living in the 19007 zip code:
- Apply for donation(s) through the Philadelphia TFT website. Deadline is Thursday, Dec 5.
- Make sure you enter the zip code of 19007 in the application.
- Enter a valid email address.
- Once application is received, you will be notified of your status through email.
- If approved, a pick up date and location will be detailed with instructions in the email.
If a 19007 zip code individual applies to the Bucks County organization, they will get denied. 19007 residents must apply to the Philadelphia campaign website and if approved your pickup will be in the Bristol area.
Toys for Tots (TFT), is a Marine Corps-based organization, was founded 77 years ago by Major Bill Hendricks. Diane, his wife, was the real inspiration and requested that he deliver some handcrafted dolls to an agency that supports children in need. In the absence of such an organization, she advised him to “start one!” That year, Major Hendricks and the Marines in his reserve unit in Los Angeles collected and distributed 5,000 toys. As a result of such successful community engagement in 1947, the Commandant directed all Marine Reserve Sites to implement a TFT campaign in 1948, which became a national community action program ever since, according to the TFT website.
Credit: Joanne Ames-LBS