The Marine Toys for Tots: Spreading Joy Since 1947
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation began in 1947 in Los Angeles, thanks to Major Bill Hendricks and his wife, Diane. Diane had handcrafted dolls she wanted to donate to children in need, but when she discovered no organization existed for such a cause, she and her husband took action. With Major Hendricks’ connections as Warner Brothers’ Director of Public Relations, the couple rallied support from celebrities, including Walt Disney. Walt Disney created the first Toys for Tots poster, which later became today’s recognizable logo. Officially recognized as a nonprofit by the IRS in 1991, Toys for Tots has since grown into a nationwide effort, collecting toys, raising funds, educating the public, and so much more.
Here in Bucks County, PA, the local chapter has seen impressive growth. What began with just two volunteers and three participating businesses has now expanded to include over three dozen volunteers and 325 businesses supporting this wonderful cause. With a population of over 670,000, the Bucks County chapter distributed an incredible 32,746 toys to 6,049 children in need last year.
At Kenderdine’s Heating Oil & HVAC, we’re proud to have been a part of this effort for nearly 20 years. Together with our employees, their families, and our loyal customers, we’ve been able to collect and donate thousands of toys to the Bucks County Toys for Tots chapter. We remain committed to contributing to this meaningful cause this year and in the years to come.
If you’d like to help make a difference this year, consider donating a new, unwrapped toy or making a cash donation. You can drop off your contribution at either of our locations at 500 S. State St. or 507 S. State St., both in Newtown. Even easier, you can hand off your donation to any of our employees during a service visit or delivery—they’ll be happy to place it in the donation box for you!
For more information about Kenderdine’s Heating Oil & HVAC, call 215-968-2041 or visit us at Kenderdines.com.
