First Lady Melania Trump joined forces with Toys for Tots to bless children with toys this holiday season.
Visiting the Marines’ Toys for Tots program at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, DC, Melania handed out toys and bags filled with goodies. She also sat with the children as they created Christmas cards and helped sort the toys.
“Whether it’s a Christmas gift to a child in London, donating school supplies to children in Africa, assembling comfort kits for troops deployed overseas, or showing kindness to a stranger, your actions can forever change the lives of someone in need,” she said in a few short remarks to the group, according to Fox Business.
Her First Lady Initiative, BE BEST, falls in line with Toys for Tots’ mission to help kids in need. According to the White House’s website, “BE BEST will champion the many successful well-being programs that provide children with the tools and skills required for emotional, social, and physical health.”
This year, she decorated the White House with a “Spirit of America” theme and agreed to help Toys for Tots because she sees “much of the spirit of America in the Marines Toys for Tots program.”
Donating her time with the nonprofit has become an annual tradition for the First Lady. In 2017, she volunteered at the warehouse, sorting toys and hosting a craft session for the children. General Rex McMillian, Commander Marine Forces Reserve, thanked Melania for her continued support of the organization and military families. Melania, in turn, showed her appreciation for families who serve in the military, giving special attention to those overseas who would not be able to celebrate with their families.
Toys for Tots started in 1947 by Marine Corps Reserve Maj. Bill Hendricks. Seven million children benefit from an average of 18 million toys donated every year. This year, the nonprofit will host hundreds of campaigns around the country to gather up toys. Information on those local events can be found here.
Photo courtesy: ©Getty Images/Chip Somodevilla/Staff
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