Free Christmas toys in Las Vegas

Photo: Ramón Warini

This Christmas every child should receive a toy from Santa Claus, as several non-profit organizations, including those from the government, have launched campaigns to bring a smile to thousands of children throughout the nation.

Among many of these charitable organizations is the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program (USMC), which was created as part of the US Marine Corps in 1991, focusing on the poorest population but having in mind the participation of donors throughout the country, as mentioned by Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), President & CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

“In fact, we were amazed at the incredible support from our loyal donors and are beyond grateful for your donations that made an incredible difference to struggling families and their children,” Laster said. “I congratulate you on your thoughtfulness and generosity and wish you all a safe and healthy Christmas 2022.”

Lieutenant Laster acknowledges the collaborative effort that was traditionally made last year when more than 22.4 million toys were distributed to almost 9 million children throughout the country. Narrowly in the Las Vegas area and city of Henderson, 65,243 Christmas gifts were handed to 47,007 kids in 2021. Simultaneously, in Carson City, 10,040 Christmas gifts were given to 1,770 children by the foundation.

For Carolina Bustillos, who lives in North Las Vegas, these gifts from the Marines are such a benefit for the poor families in the region, as it helps to mitigate the current situation due to the inflation where everything is rising day after day.

“I didn’t know the Marines were doing these events to help those kids who might not have a very pleasant Christmas like other kids will do,” Bustillos said. “Here in Las Vegas, even though it is a city that seems to have a stable economy because of the casinos, it’s not since the pandemic, everything is expensive, and these gifts are going to make a difference for thousands of children.”

However, in order to receive these Christmas presents, parents would need to register their kids through the Marine Toys for Tots website. There, people can find their local campaign and sites where toys are being distributed.

In key addition to the Toys for Tots foundation, there are other places people can go and pick free toys for children in the Las Vegas area. NV Energy is facilitating its parking lot, where a few other charities will be hosting a giveaway of toys until Christmas. Sponsors such as radio station 98.5 FM KLUC, along with Help of Southern Nevada organization, will be joining the Holiday cause at 6226 W. Sahara Ave.

Last updated on December 18, 2022 by Ramón Warini