Applications for the 2022 Toys for Tots Christmas Campaign Now Available

The 75th annual Toys for Tots campaign is now accepting applications for families throughout West Alabama to provide gifts to youth for the Christmas holiday.

Samuel Minchew, this year's campaign coordinator for West Alabama, said applications went live on October 15 and will be accepted until November 15.

Minchew said the assistance from the community is a big part in the success of the campaign each year.

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"We are fortunate to be able to give back to the community in the way that we do and without the community, we couldn't make this happen," Minchew said. "It's always important to remember where you came from and help others that are traveling along their journey to help better them and their future. It's important to me to always pay it forward."

Minchew said in order to qualify, families must meet the following criteria:

• Have a child, or children, newborn up to 17 years old
• Must reside in Tuscaloosa, Greene, Hale, Pickens, Lamar, Fayette or Sumter Counties
• May not be dually enrolled in a separate Christmas toy collection drive, such as the Salvation Army Angel Tree program

Minchew said applicants will receive a confirmation email after November 15 if they are approved to participate in the program.

Donors can also participate by donating toys. There are currently around 100 drop-off sites located throughout West Alabama.

Last year, the West Alabama Toys for Tots campaign assisted 750 families, serving almost 1,900 children with over 6,300 toys for Christmas. Minchew said the organization hopes to assist 1,300 families during this year's drive.

To find out how to receive toy assistance, donate toys or become a volunteer with Toys for Tots, click here or contact Minchew at 205-310-5058 or by email at samuelminchew@yahoo.com.