Tuesday, December 07, 2010

USS Constitution Gives 'Toys for Tots'

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kathryn E. Macdonald, USS Constitution Public Affairs

BOSTON (NNS) -- USS Constitution Sailors participated in the Toys for Tots program Nov. 17 to Dec. 5 in Boston.

Toys for Tots is a Marine Corps program that collects new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year.

The toys are distributed as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community where the campaign is conducted.

"The Toys for Tots program allows children in less fortunate families to enjoy gifts that they may have never received," said Yeoman 1st Class (SCW) Chrishinda Dobbs, who organized the drive. "I grew up in a low-income family, and it was programs like Toys for Tots and selfless donors that enabled us to enjoy new toys and cheer during the holiday season."

"I hope the children feel that they are loved, thought about and cared for, even by people they don't know and may never meet," said Dobbs.

Sailors raised more than $600 in donations to the program. Most of the donations will be distributed to the North Shore communities of Boston.

"I hope we (the Constitution crew) continue doing things like this, not just for Toys for Tots but other similar programs," said Seaman Ashley West. "It's a great idea, and it allows us to show that we really care about our community."

The drive concluded with a brunch held at the commandant's house at the Charlestown Navy Yard. The Massachusetts Bay Council and the U.S. Navy League sponsored the brunch.

"I believe that the Toy for Tots program is an important program for Sailors to support, especially from this command because we see so many children every year," said Yeoman 3rd Class Alexis Condon. "The children that have been a part of this ship's past, present and future have always supported the Constitution as well as her Sailors. Likewise, we should support the children."

Constitution is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston and is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat and welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year.

For more information on Constitution, visit www.history.navy.mil/ussconstitution or www.facebook.com/ussconstitutionofficial.

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