Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Announces 2024 Toys for Tots Drive

Thanks to the Norfolk County Register of Deeds for contributing this news to Westwood Minute.

Dedham, MA – Believing that the true spirit of the holidays lies in giving rather than receiving, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell is sponsoring the Registry’s 17th annual U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots drive.

“The Registry of Deeds is proud to partner with the United States Marine Corps Reserve to help deliver a happy Christmas to children this holiday season,” stated Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “This act of kindness can help spread joy and make a positive impact on those in need. Those engaging in this selfless act can know that they are part of what makes this time of year so special and hopefully inspire others to do the same.”

Donations of new toys and games can be brought directly to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds building, located at 649 High St. in Dedham, starting Monday, November 18th, to Tuesday, December 10th, at 10 a.m. A marked donation bin will be set up in the lobby, which is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

“The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve plays a vital role in ensuring that donated toys reach children in need during the holiday season. Their dedication and commitment to the goal of making sure no child goes without a present on Christmas is truly commendable,” said Register O'Donnell. “We thank the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and all our Military personnel for their dedication and service to our country.”

This year marks the 77th anniversary of Toys for Tots. The program was established in 1947 when the wife of a Marine major wanted to donate a Raggedy Ann doll for Christmas but couldn’t find an organization to accept it. Since then, the national program has delivered over 677 million toys.

“Every holiday season, the Registry witnesses firsthand the many acts of kindness and Christmas spirit as numerous people drop off gifts for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots drive,” noted Register O'Donnell. “It's truly wonderful to see so many people dropping off gifts, from Registry employees to title examiners to attorneys and members of the general public, because no family should have to struggle to enjoy their holiday season.”

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program’s mission is to help less fortunate children experience the joy and happiness associated with Christmas. The program operates in more than 800 cities and towns throughout all 50 states.

“It means everything, any time the local community can come out and help support Toys for Tots,” said Cpl. Christopher Todd, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines. “By doing an event like this, you get to witness the best side of people and know that these donations are going towards giving someone a happy Christmas.”

Since 2007, the Registry of Deeds has collected over 1,700 toy donations for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.

Register O’Donnell concluded, “We all have the power to make a child’s Christmas something special. Not only does donating to Toys for Tots bring joy to children in need, but it also reminds us of the true spirit of the holiday season. It's a chance for us to come together as a community and make a difference, and therefore, giving to the Toys for Tots drive just might make it the best Christmas present you can give yourself this holiday season.”