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Charlotte Amalie
Friday, March 29, 2024
HomeNewsArchivesMARINES BREAK OUT THE TOYS

MARINES BREAK OUT THE TOYS

The U.S. Marine Corps , the world's premier fighting force, showed their kinder and gentler side this Christmas week.
The St. Croix Marine Corps Association, Inc. distributed over 500 toys this week to local non-profit charities throughout the island as part of their annual Toys For Tots campaign. Toys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps tradition for over 50 years distributes close to 8 million toys each Christmas season, nationwide.
Such on-island charities as the American Red Cross, The Gideons/Angel Tree, Bethlehem House, the Women's Coalition and CASA joined with the St. Croix Marines in identifying those children that might otherwise go without this Christmas season.
Carl Gotts, a former Marine Corps officer and director of the local Toys for Tots effort, said, "This is our fifth season and even though the request list gets longer each year, the Marines on St. Croix have risen to the challenge, fulfilling the mission of Toys for Tots that no needy child goes without a toy at Christmas."
The local association comprised of former Marines living on St. Croix raise funds through their annual Toys For Tots Golf Tournament held each fall at Carambola.
"This is one of the only events you'll see a Marine readily volunteer for", said a former Marine. "The smiles on the childrens' faces make all the hard work throughout the year worth it." he added.
"We receive a tremendous amount of support from the St. Croix business community and each one of them share in our success." said Oley Borris, Chief Fund raiser and the unit Santa Claus. Over 100 local businesses, including restaurants, retail shops, tour operators, contractors, insurance agencies and realtors provide hole sponsorships and raffle prizes for the annual event each year. "Every penny goes to the purchase of toys and our sponsors know that when they make a donation to Toys For Tots, whether big or small, they are making a difference."
"I can be very persuasive," Borris added with a smile.

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