Capital Region Toys For Tots Announces Return of US Marine Corps Reserve Dunkin’ Toys For Tots Train For 2023 Holiday Season
MECHANICVILLE —The United States Marine Corps Reserve and Dunkin’ on Oct. 20 launched the 2023 edition of the Capital Region Toys for Tots program with the groundbreaking announcement of the return of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Dunkin’ Toys for Tots Train.
The return of the train follows a four-year hiatus during which toys and holiday cheer were delivered to children and families in need by way of a tractor-trailer convoy.
The announcement was punctuated by a $25,000 donation from Dunkin’ and its Capital Region franchisees, which will be used by the Marine Corps Reserve to help deliver toys to children in communities throughout Upstate New York, and brings Dunkin’s total support of the holiday collection campaign to $425,000 since 2009. This year also marks the 76th anniversary of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Toys program.
The Marine Corps Reserve Dunkin’ Toys for Tots Train, which made its last journey in 2018, became a cherished tradition for more than a decade. Large crowds of children and adults turned out at each designated depot to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and receive toys in addition to hot chocolate and baked goods from Dunkin’. However, in 2019 delivery of the toys fully transitioned from the rails to the highway and a convoy of trucks.
The holiday train will take to the rails on Dec. 2 and 3.
The 2023 toy collection drive will take place at approximately 400 locations throughout the area.
Capital Region Toys for Tots and the Marine Corps Reserve will work with more than 250 community agencies in 14 counties across the state to serve more than 200,000 children this holiday season.
Businesses or individuals interested in making donations can contact Toys for Tots at info@capitalregiontoysfortots.org.