New Orleans, Louisiana- There have been a number of different humanitarian efforts to respond to the situation of people in New Orleans
over the last several years, due to the different natural disasters there. Despite the economic hard times, the US Marine Gunnery Sergeant that is involved with the New Orleans Toys for Tots program believes people will respond and come through to help the kids.
Sergeant King is a national coordinator for the US Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program, and he believes that as they do every year that people will respond, in support of the Toys for Tots program. “Everyone is having a rough time financially this year, but people are still generous and help out across the board,” said Sergeant King.
This year is going to be a little tougher than most however, according to Retired Major Bill Grein. Grein is the Vice President for the national Marine Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation that sponsors the annual toy drive, and so far fewer toys have been donated but they still are hopeful as the drive enters its final week before Christmas.
Corporations have wound up stepping in this year in a huge way, and because of their involvement many programs in the Marine Toys for Tots foundation around the country have had their quote for toys met after all.
“Volunteers come and give and give and give, its largely a thankless job, but when you see the eyes light up on a child that gets that special toy, its all worth it, and it all makes sense,” said Sergeant King.
“Seeing the reaction of a child who otherwise would not have a Christmas, you cant put a price tag on it, its priceless,” said Sergeant King.
