(NewsUSA) - While February is recognized as National Random Acts of Kindness month, at Marine Toys for Tots, we believe kindness knows no boundaries—nor does it follow a calendar. Kindness is intentional, and our year-round mission embodies this philosophy through our “Not So Random Acts of Kindness” initiative—a mission that enables us to deliver optimism and joy to children in need throughout the year and achieve record-breaking milestones.

Thanks to generous and intentional donors across the Nation, Toys for Tots is able to respond to the needs of children whose lives have been upended by natural disasters, in addition to providing year-round support for disadvantaged children. In 2024, Marine Toys for Tots delivered more than 30 million toys, books, and games to nearly 13 million children in need!

“I am deeply humbled by the incredible generosity of our supporters,” said LtGen James Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every donation and every act of kindness strengthens our mission and allows us to reach more disadvantaged children, year after year. Together, we are truly making a difference,” he said.

As we step into a new year, our resolve has never been stronger. The Marine Toys for Tots Program remains committed to supporting those in need throughout the year, because we know that needs don’t follow a seasonal timeline. Whether assistance is needed during the holiday season or after crises such as Hurricane Helene or the California wildfires, Toys for Tots stands ready to help families and children who are facing unimaginable challenges and adversity.

Girls and boys who had lost their homes, their belongings, and their sense of security as a result of last year’s natural disasters received a glimmer of hope at Toys for Tots’ emergency distribution event in Hendersonville, North Carolina. In total, over 10,000 toys, books, and games made their way into the hands of 2,600 families.  

Just like the support we provided to the families whose lives were turned upside down in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, we will provide comfort and assistance to children and families in the communities surrounding Los Angeles.

“Los Angeles is where Toys for Tots began 78 years ago, and in response to the wildfires that ravaged our Program's birthplace, we are assembling and preparing to distribute emotional relief packages through our Disaster Recovery and Response Initiative,” LtGen Laster said.

On February 8^th, our partner, the Sydney Paige Foundation, organized a distribution event in Pasadena, California, for the children and families who have lost everything in the fires. During this event, 5,000 toys, books, and other gifts – provided by Toys for Tots – were distributed to 2,800 families.

“The tragic fires in Los Angeles have put countless families in crisis, disrupting their lives and destroying homes. While our hearts ache for those affected, our dedication to assisting those in need remains steadfast,” stated LtGen Laster.

The Program is also providing additional emotional relief packages to our partner, Tackle Hunger, who will distribute the gifts to children and families during another distribution event on February 16^th with the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank.

The gifts provided by Toys for Tots offer vital comfort and care to children impacted by these disasters, providing them with hope and a sense of normalcy during their most challenging times.

To learn how you can donate or get involved, visit www.toysfortots.org.