Brandon Community Gears Up for Annual Toys for Tots Drive
The city of Brandon is preparing for its much-anticipated Toys for Tots drive, set to take place on Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosted by CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises, this event invites community members to contribute toys and monetary donations to support families in need during the Christmas season.
Local Initiative with a Historic Legacy
Toys for Tots began in 1947, ignited by the passion of Marine Corps Reserve Maj. Bill Hendricks and his wife, Diane. The couple started the program with a few handmade dolls, but when they couldn’t find an organization to donate them to, Diane encouraged Hendricks to establish one. Their humble beginnings led to the collection and distribution of 5,000 toys that first year, and since then, Toys for Tots has expanded to make a significant impact across the United States.
This year, in the spirit of Hendricks’ original vision, local realtor Ray Monahan and his team are committed to continuing this legacy in the Brandon community. “When you volunteer, people thank you for your time, but you have received the greatest reward, which is helping your community,” Monahan explained.
Event Details and Community Engagement
The drive will occur at the CENTURY 21 Beggins Enterprises office, located at 6542 N. U.S. 41 in Apollo Beach. Community members are encouraged to drop off toys and monetary donations and enjoy a festive lunch featuring hamburgers and hot dogs. In a remarkable show of support, Pearson Capital will match 50 percent of donations up to $5,000, amplifying the contributions made by local residents.
The event promises to be more than just a donation drive. Families can look forward to various activities, including a 360-photo booth and a special visit from Santa Claus. Local military and first responder volunteers will also be present, further emphasizing the community’s commitment to support those in need.
Creating Joy and Lasting Memories
Monahan reflects on the importance of this event, stating, “This is a fun event for the whole family with local vendors, the local fire department, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It’s wonderful to see the kids’ faces light up when they see Santa and have their picture taken with him.”
How to Get Involved
Conclusion
The Toys for Tots drive in Brandon offers a valuable opportunity for community members to come together and make a difference. With a rich history and a strong local commitment, this year’s event aims to enrich the lives of many families, continuing the legacy of giving established over seventy years ago.
