NORTH PARK — Has Chicago come down with a major case of the bah-humbugs?
For the first time in its history, Toys for Tots is in danger of not having enough donated gifts to meet requests from needy kids, according to a report in the Chicago Tribune.
"Requests have grown and the amount of toys has grown and people are donating, but not as much," Marine Gunnery Sgt. Jesus Castaneda told the Tribune.
The program, run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, provides gifts to underprivileged children affiliated with more than 650 organizations, including schools, churches and hospitals. Castaneda estimated that he's tens of thousands of toys short this Christmas.
The need is particularly great for toys for children age 2 and younger and 10 to 13, he said.
C'mon Chicago, even Scrooge grew a heart.
Toys can be donated through Dec. 16 in order to ensure delivery by Christmas Day.
Toys must be new, in original packaging and unwrapped. No food is allowed and stuffed animals are discouraged.
Toys 'R' Us and Babies 'R' Us are national drop-off points. Click here for a complete list of neighborhood drop-offs, searchable by ZIP code.
The Marines are also accepting toys at their Chicago Reserve base, 3034 W. Foster Ave. Call first to make sure someone is available to receive the donation, 773-588-9681.
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