Latham, N.Y. – The Capital Region Toys for Tots chapter is stepping up this holiday season with two new initiatives aimed at meeting a surge in demand for toys among children in need.
Truck Loads of Joy drive at Five Below
On Nov. 28, volunteers will gather at the Five Below store in Latham to fill the retailer’s trucks and trailers with donated toys. The event, dubbed “Truck Loads of Joy,” seeks to collect enough gifts to supply dozens of families across the region.
South distribution convoy replaces holiday train
Because of a shortage of railroad equipment, Toys for Tots is launching a south‑bound convoy that will travel through rural communities, delivering toys directly to families who might otherwise be missed. Organizers say the convoy will ensure that children in more remote areas receive the same holiday cheer as those in the city.
What items are most needed?
Coordinator Shelby Kleniewski highlighted that toys for older children, particularly those aged 12 and up, are in short supply. “Board games, craft kits, sports equipment – those are really the big things that if you’re looking for what you can purchase and really help us, that age demographic is the one,” Kleniewski said.
Community members are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped items that match these categories. Donations can be dropped off at the Five Below location on the day of the drive or delivered to the convoy’s designated drop‑off points, which will be announced on the Toys for Tots website.
All contributions support Toys for Tots’ mission to provide new toys to children whose families cannot afford them, helping to bring a sense of normalcy and joy during the holiday season.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
