Thousands More Toys Needed for Cook County's Toys for Tots

This could be the first year that Cook County’s Toys for Tots can’t come through for kids in need.

The charity is close to missing its goal, and organizers fear they might not be able to give toys to all the children who asked for one. They need “tens of thousands” more by Dec. 16, the deadline for donations to be received to ensure they are delivered by Christmas.

Cash donations this year have totaled at least $50,000, used to purchase toys in bulk. It’s donations of actual toys that are coming up short—possibly too few to distribute to all 650 organizations, including churches, schools, hospitals and community centers, that give the toys to underprivileged children and families.

“There are more kids in need of toys,” U.S. Marines Gunnery Sgt. Jesus Castaneda told the Tribune. “Requests have grown and the amount of toys has grown and people are donating, but not as much.”

Toys for children age 2 and younger, and 10 to 13, are especially needed. The toys must be new, in original packing and unwrapped. Please, no stuffed animals.

Find a drop-off location and information on how to donate cash.