TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — In the spirit of giving, the Marine Corps League in Terre Haute is hosting their 2nd annual “Toystock” in an effort to make Christmas special for children in the area.
With 10 bands performing live, food vendors serving up tasty items and providing presents for kids for Christmas, the league has their eyes set on an even higher goal than last year. This year’s goal is $15,000 as they are also collecting presents.
Marine Corps League Commandant Randy Torrence believes they can accomplish their goal.
“It’s the greatest charity that I know that’s out there,” Commandant Torrence. “We actually have the ids come in and they see the toys and all that. Just the look on their face, they’re surprised.”
This year’s event will be held on November 13th staring at noon. Organizers says this year’s event carries more importance due to the current state of the country.
“I think unfortunately with the course of the supply chain is so messed up right now,” Courtney Walker, club manager said. “The unemployment rates are just unbelievable. Unfortunately kids do not get the Christmas that they want and or deserve.”
Walker says knowing they are making children happy is one of those special feelings you just can’t describe.
“To see under the tree that they may only thought they were going to get a toy or two or get nothing and to see that, it’s amazing,” Walker said.
The league barely missed last years fundraising goal last year due to the annual Parke County Covered Bridge Festival being cancelled because of the pandemic.
“Last year part of the deal was Covered Bridge wasn’t allowed to happen last year,” James Hollingsworth, musical coordinator for Toystock said. “The Marines collect most of their, a lot of their toys and a lot of money come from or use to come or does come from Covered Bridge.”
