Toys for Tots Delivers Presents and Holiday Cheer

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – Corporal Hailey Cummings knew after high school she wanted to join something unique, a place she could absorb unforgettable, bonding experiences, gaining a vision-purpose beyond herself; she discovered those priceless pieces when she became a member of the United States Marines.

“The marine experience is truly special; the camaraderie and “espirit de corp,” always faithful, always here for each other, like a family is what being a member is all about,” said Cummings. “It’s like one big family; what I wanted and what I found here.”

Two years ago, Cummings also discovered another unforgettable part of the marine journey when she became involved with its national, not-for-profit, Toys for Tots Foundation, whose mission is centered upon collecting new, unwrapped toys and then distributing them, along with holiday cheer, to those in need. One of several Marine Corp Hudson Valley Toys for Tots members assisting to fulfill those goals inside of the Newburgh Armory Unity Center Wednesday, Cummings could be seen organizing, while overseeing volunteers, who were carefully selecting a wide assortment of requested toys for children of all ages and placing them in large black bags to then be handed over to patiently waiting, appreciative recipients.

“Seeing the smiles on the parents’ faces when they receive the toys is the most rewarding part,” said Cummings. “Just being able to provide for the community and give back is so deeply rewarding.”

It’s an involvement profoundly satisfying for the volunteers, and making a marked difference in the lives of countless people. Last year, Toys for Tots nationally distributed 18,397 toys, supporting over 11,000 children. Thanks to the generous contributions of individuals who load up (both in-person and on-line) requested toy boxes by an array of local businesses, families who might otherwise not be able to provide gifts to children, are blessed with this precious assist. It’s an uplifting, potent gesture that two of the local organization’s civilian volunteers are acquainted with first-hand.

“Two years ago I needed help with Christmas, and I found it with Toys for Tots, said Poughkeepsie resident, Nandie Clark, who also helps out with altruistic deeds year-round at her church, giving back, as well as holds her own philanthropic events.

Another volunteer, Clark’s cousin, Tenisha Taylor, who could be spotted diligently fulfilling toy requests, as she energetically filled up her bag, also related challenging times in her life when she needed help, noting the pivotal difference it can make. Involved with Toys for Tots in the Bronx, she immediately wanted to get involved with it again when she moved to Poughkeepsie.

“The experience of being involved is amazing,” smiled Taylor. “It’s all about giving back, feeding, clothing, or cleaning for someone who needs the help; I know how good that can make you feel when you receive it, and being on the giving end just gives you that beautiful warm and fuzzy feeling.”

The Marine Corp of the Hudson Valley Toys for Tots held three toy distributions in December, capping off with Saturday’s well-attended visit from Santa and other special holiday flair venue, at the Newburgh Armory site. Captain Louis, who is involved in his second year with the organization, was registering and checking in already signed up parents, who had made their individual toy requests, before they headed downstairs to receive toy bags filled to the brim. Like so many other volunteers, the experience has transformed him on multiple levels.

“The opportunity to give back to families means a great deal; some people will go home and wrap the presents, putting them under the tree, while others will give them out as is,” said Louis. “Either way, it really helps them to enjoy the holiday season, really what it’s all about.” Sergeant Louis added, “We all really, really enjoy doing this; as marines, it gives us an opportunity to do something outside of our regular military jobs and truly make an impact on the community.”