When the holiday season comes around each year, many children write out their wish lists for their loved ones to shop for. However, some families find themselves struggling financially, so they cannot afford gifts. Many local organizations partner with Toys for Tots to bring gifts to those families who otherwise would not receive them. 

Toys for Tots is an annual fundraiser organized by the United States Marine Corps. The fundraiser was started in 1947 to bring Christmas gifts to children in need. Since it was founded, Toys for Tots has distributed over 627 million toys nationwide.

Steele County Toys for Tots partners with many Owatonna businesses and organizations to collect gifts for local families. One of the organizations that partners with Toys for Tots is OHS SHOC. As part of a long-standing tradition, SHOC members volunteer their time and donate gifts for the Toys for Tots organization. SHOC adviser Ms. Nancy WIlliams said, “It’s a good way for our community to see that our students, who are the future of our community, are learning to support one another. It’s a great opportunity for them to choose to help others.”

On Dec. 13 and 14, SHOC members volunteered to help provide gifts for children in Owatonna. The SHOC volunteers gathered at Trinity Lutheran Church to distribute gifts. Volunteers were able to help parents choose gifts that their kids would love. Sophomore SHOC member Carley DeWitz said, “It was very heartwarming to see so many people from school willing to help others.” As Christmas approaches, Toys for Tots is continuing to help countless families across the country.