2023 Toys for Tots campaign commences in the CNMI
MARINE Corps Base Camp Blaz is proud to announce the start of the seventh Toys for Tots campaign in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
With a partnership between the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, the Commonwealth Bureau of Military Affairs, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Women’s Association, and the Associated Students of Northern Marianas College, toy collection boxes will be placed at local businesses and government offices during the first week of October. Toy collection will conclude Dec. 8.
Last year 4,227 toys were collected on Saipan, going to children in need and spreading a message of happiness and hope during the holiday season.
At the conclusion of the campaign, toys from Saipan were also sent to the mayor’s offices of Tinian and Rota with the help of Star Marianas. Toys were also given to Karidat, the Division of Youth Services, and the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation.
“As Marines, our mission is to serve and protect the nation,” said Col. Ernest Govea, MCB Camp Blaz commanding officer. “Similarly, we extend our commitment to giving back to the communities we call home. We are very proud to lead the Toys for Tots campaign once again this year, and we stand ready alongside our community to ensure every child across the Marianas experiences the joy of the holiday season.”
The Toys for Tots Campaign relies on widespread support and through the generous contributions of individuals, businesses, and communities. The 2023 campaign encourages everyone to get involved, whether through toy donations or serving as a donation location.
“Nothing is more precious than bringing joy and smiles this holiday season to the children across the Marianas,” said Wella Palacios, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands first lady. “We look forward to working with the government agencies and our partners to gather toys to share the Christmas spirit and joy with our children.”
To participate and donate to Toys for Tots, bring a newly purchased, unwrapped toy to one of the many businesses or organizations who have volunteered to be drop-off locations.
For a complete list of locations and important dates, visit the chamber’s website at www.saipanchamber.com, call (670) 234-7150 or visit their Facebook page @SPNChamber.
For more information about MCB Camp Blaz’s Toys for Tots Campaign, contact Gunnery Sgt. Rubin Tan at (671) 362-7375 or email rubin.tan@usmc.mil/.
“The Saipan Chamber of Commerce is honored once again this Christmas season to partner with the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz to support the annual Toys for Tots program. We aim to leverage our network of businesses and organizations to gather toys that will raise the spirits and bring joy to thousands of children throughout the CNMI,” said Joe Guerrero, Saipan Chamber of Commerce president. “This is another way that the Saipan Chamber of Commerce gives back to its community, and we are always happy to invest in our children.”
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit charity with a 76-year history. Last year the Marine Toys for Tots Program fulfilled the holiday hopes and dreams of 9.9 million less fortunate children in over 800 communities nationwide by distributing 24.4 million toys. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org/.