Toys for Tots Application Deadline Nov. 15

The U.S. Marines Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program of Polk County continues to accept family and non-profit applications for toys. The deadline is Nov. 15.

In 2018, due to the generosity of Polk County residents, businesses, and volunteers, the Toys for Tots program provided new toys to over 12,362 needy children in Polk County.

Once the application is submitted, the applicant will receive a email acknowledging the application. Applicants must follow all instructions in the emails. On Saturday, Dec. 14 toys will be distributed to families at various locations throughout Polk County. Families will be required to bring documentation to the distribution sites to show they qualify for the toys. The current qualifications are:

• Parent / Guardian and child must be a CURRENT Polk County resident.

• Child(ren) must be between 0 to 13 years of age.

• Parent / Guardian must be able to prove they are currently receiving Medicaid, food assistance (SNAP or WIC), or cash assistance (TANF). If the parent / guardian has recently become unemployed, proof must be provided.

Note: Children participating in any other local community, faith-based organization, church, or school program receiving toys should not request toys through the Toys for Tots Program. We endeavor to make sure all children in the community with needs receive toys for Christmas.

Utilizing the website http://polkcounty-fl.toysfortots.org, residents can request a toy, sign up to volunteer, host a Toys for Tots event, and for businesses to request a drop box for toy donations. The website allows for the information be viewed in any language.

"We are excited about the 2019 campaign. We are looking for volunteers through the county to assist with our work in our warehouse, which is in Auburndale," said Polk coordinator David Waller. "Also, volunteers are needed with our toy drop boxes. Businesses throughout Polk County request drop boxes to receive new, unwrapped toys from supporters. Volunteers assist in delivering the boxes to the businesses and then manage the pick- up of toys and delivery to our warehouse."

Updates on the campaign can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PolkCountyToysForTots. Supporters are asked to take a few minutes to "like" and follow the campaign with Facebook.