Navy glows red hot for Toys for Tots

Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific (SWFPAC) recently kicked off yet another year of Toys for Tots.

The command raised $9,000 which bought nearly 2,000 toys for area children. The Toys for Tots program has been a SWFPAC tradition since 1977.

The committee running the program is comprised of SWFPAC civilians, sailors, Marines and contractors as well as volunteers.

“There are also a group of ladies made up of retirees and current employees from SWFPAC and IMF that make beautiful quilts for us to raffle,” said Sue Maxwell, SWFPAC commanding officer’s secretary. “They do this every year. This year we raised $819 from the quilts alone.”

Donations can be made by cash, crafts that will be sold, and, of course, donated new toys. The donations will then be distributed to the Olympic Peninsula Detachment, Marine Corps Reserve League, and the Toys for Tots program.

“SWFPAC has provided more than half of the toys for the Olympic Peninsula for this program,” said Maxwell. “We have built a reputation for giving back to the community and for brightening the holidays for the families of Kitsap County who are in need.” Every year, efforts are put forth to exceed the previous year’s donations. Fundraisers were held yearround to prepare for the holidays. Silent auctions, craft sales, bake sales, salad sales, and cookbook sales were a few. The Marine Corp Security Company, Bangor also collected toys at the Kitsap Mall and assisted in gift-wrapping.

“People from this command are very generous, even in times of economic hardships. We have always been able to meet our goals and have plenty of volunteers to help,” said Maxwell.

The children will gather Dec. 14 at the Kitsap Pavilion at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds to receive their presents. Each child should receive two to three presents.

“This is a rewarding experience,” said Maxwell. “It is quite emotional and you just can’t help but feel proud to be a part of such an important event that touches so many.”

(Petty Officer 3rd Class Reyes is assigned to Subase Bangor Public Affairs)

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