WASHINGTON (AP) — Less than 10 minutes was all it took for a large pile of toys donated by White House staff to disappear as Jill Biden and children from military families sorted them into boxes as part of the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign for less fortunate children.
The White House has been a longtime supporter of the program, which has been helping families for 77 years, since 1947. Lt. Gen. Leonard Anderson IV, commander of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
“We’re making a significant impact right here in the nation’s capital, where these toys are going to children in need,” he said at a White House event hosted by the first lady.
Trusted news and daily treats, straight to your inbox
See for yourself: The Yodel is the source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories.
Last year the program delivered more than 25 million toys to more than 10 million children nationwide, he said, “and this year we think we’re going to set another record, so we’re very excited.”
Jill Biden told several dozen military children sitting directly in front of her on the floor of the East Room, across from two large, glittering Christmas trees on either side of the doorway, that they are loved. Her father and deceased son served in the military.
“If you only remember one thing this holiday season, after all the wrapping paper has been cleared away, let it be this: you are loved,” she said. “There are so many people who care about you, from your family and your friends, from your teachers and your classmates, to the president and me.”
“And the best thing we can do with that love is let it overflow, and share it with others who might really need it,” she added.
After her brief remarks, the first lady asked the children, “Are you ready to start sorting?” And off they went toward the large pile of dolls, stuffed animals, sports equipment, vehicles, books, puzzles and other items, including a copy of “Delaware Opy” — a Monopoly-style board game themed around President Joe Biden’s home state.
