Oak Forest Police Department's Toys for Tots Effort Under Way

The Oak Forest Police Department has kicked off its participation in the United States Marine Corps Reserves (USMCR) Toys for Tots program this holiday season. From now until December 14, the police department will be accepting donations of new and unwrapped toys in the City Hall lobby—just look for the official Toys for Tots drop box.

“It’s heartwarming to see how our residents and businesses have responded to the program,” said Oak Forest Police Sergeant Scott Durano, who spearheads the city’s efforts. “Last year, we delivered 1,745 new toys to the Marines. This year, we are hoping to build on that success by collecting at least 2,000 toys.”

According to Durano, one of the most effective ways to collect toys is the “Fill the Squad” toy drive, which will be held on Friday, November 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Walgreens, located at 5525 W. 159th Street. Volunteers from the police department, Marines, and Santa will be on hand to meet and greet donors. The MIX Road Crew from 101.9 FM also will be on site to spread a little holiday cheer.

Residents also can donate toys at participating businesses. If your business would like to be a drop-off center, please contact Sergeant Durano at 708-687-4050, ext. 1239 or sdurano@oak- forest.org for your drop box and poster. Residents who are unable to visit a drop-off site or the Fill the Squad toy drive can contact Sergeant Durano to make arrangements for pickup.

Be sure to like the Oak Forest Police Supports the Toys for Tots Program Facebook page for the latest information and to show your support of the program.