Unfortunately 2020 has wreaked havoc on all of us in many ways. It is especially affecting my 23rd annual Toys for Tots collection for my birthday. Because lung transplant patients have very poor outcomes if we get the coronavirus, I need to remain isolated at home. The dream of delivering another truck load of toys has quickly vanished. Can Covid-19 be over with already?!?! It breaks my heart since last year with your help, I was able to deliver 918 toys! I was hopeful I was going to have even more this year. Next year I’ll have to make up for lost time and toys but until then there are options.

Here’s how you can help the Tots right now.

1. You can drop off toys on your own at KARE11 or if you see a bin at a store.
2. The Marines are asking for monetary donations more than anything this year Minneapolis Toys For Tots
3. There is another clever way to donate by purchasing toys from the virtual toy box using this link.Toys For Tots virtual shopping

They are closing the donation period a few days earlier than normal to give more time for the Marines to organize due to the lack of physical toys. All donations will be accepted through Monday, December 14th. If you were considering helping, please look at the website. If you have donated already, Thank you!

It’s all about making smiles on kids faces this time of the year! With more challenging times, I understand it’s more difficult but please think about any donation you can give.

I’m saddened I won’t be able to collect nearly as many toys, but I’ve done some online shopping and will order some more via Instacart and drop those off at the station. I’m looking forward to resuming my 23 year tradition in full force next year and donating more toys than ever in honor of my double lung donor, Jacob.

Thank you, have a very joyous holiday season!