Toys for Tots Mostly Rescued From Shortage

When organizers of Toys for Tots opened one of their storage warehouses at the former El Toro Marine base, they expected to find it half full. Instead, it was empty, and the unexpected shortage made them fret that a lot of needy children would go without Christmas presents, especially in Orange County.

But an appeal to the public in recent days has helped fill the gap, and the group has about 80% of the toys needed, said Scott Mather, a toy organizer with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

In addition to a shortfall in donations, the number of toys needed has increased from 215,000 a year ago to more than 300,000.

Toys are still accepted at fire stations. After Christmas, the toys are given to organizations that help children throughout the year.

“If a child goes into foster care, toys are often provided,” said Maria Sabol, a spokeswoman for the Anaheim Fire Department. “Don’t worry. Anything provided on Christmas Day will end up in the hands of a child in need of a toy.”

The program involves several organizations, including the Marine Corps, fire departments, Spark of Love and Operation Santa Claus.

Eligible young recipients are screened through St. Vincent de Paul. It provides a list to firefighters, who deliver the toys on Christmas.

Toys of all shapes and sizes are needed, Mather said. Of the items collected, he has seen classic toys such as Barbie, Tonka trucks and remote-controlled cars. Other examples include basketballs and board games.

“We ask the public to try and bring a toy with a $10 value,” Mather said. “And don’t worry if you bring a gift [today]. They won’t go to waste, believe me. We do this every year and we can reserve them for next year.”