Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Most Needed List Given For Tots

More important than the FBI's 'most wanted list,' the Toys for Tots program announced its 'most needed' list. Instead of the country's most dangerous criminals, this list names the country's most needed toys appropriate for donation to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program, sponsored by CentruyTel.

"Of the 15 million children living below the poverty level, only about one third of them will benefit from donations to the Toys for Tots program," said Margaret Osborne McKoin, vice president of marketing for CenturyTel and Toys for Tots spokesperson. "We can never have enough toys. However, there are some items and types of toys more needed than others."

All toys are greatly appreciated. However, there is a greater need for donation of the following items:

Gifts for big tots. Historically, toys are donated for children ages 4 to 9. However, there also is a need for items for kids ages 10 to 14, such as hair dryers, curling irons, portable radios and sports equipment. "Although this age group isn't typically thought of as 'tots,' there are many teens who benefit from the Toys for Tots program," McKoin said.

Reading is fun and fun-damental. Although not typically thought of as a toy, a book brings joy as well as knowledge to any child. "Studies have shown that children who read, or are read to, are happier and have a better chance of improving their lifestyle," McKoin said.

Special kids have special needs. Don't forget children who have special needs. Ask a store clerk about those gifts that feature the sounds, lights or movements that help children improve speech or dexterity.

Think about it. Educational challenges wrapped up in game form are not only fun, but also teach children valuable problem-solving skills. Artistic toys, such as paint sets, crayons and coloring books are also greatly needed. "Teaching children to express themselves artistically helps build communication skills and confidence," McKoin said.

Don't forget baby. Children from the ages 1 to 3 are often forgotten when donations are made for the Toys for Tots program. Toys from Sesame Street, Playskool and Teletubies help young children crawl, walk and speak. Stuffed animals provide comfort to children in need of hugs.

CenturyTel, the national communications sponsor of the Toys for Tots program, is collecting toys at nearly 400 locations in 20 states.

To date, CenturyTel has collected more than 13,000 toys. The company has set a goal of collecting 100,000 toys, the equivalent of $1 million.

Toy and monetary donations will be collected through December 22, and distributed locally, as needed, to disadvantaged children by the local U.S. Marine Corps Reserve or through assisting children's service charities.

"We are excited about our participation in the Toys for Tots program, and we are proud to work with the U.S. Marine Corps this holiday season," McKoin said.

CenturyTel is participating in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

To find the drop-off location nearest you, call toll free at 877-869-4543.