Although the demand is up this year, Toys For Tots volunteers say more businesses are stepping up to take part in the annual toy collection.
TRAVERSE CITY -- It's the time of year when you start noticing the Toys for Tots drop off signs around northern Michigan. Local businesses are taking part in the annual Toys For Tots collection, but this year the need is greater.
"The need is up upwards of 20% from what I've heard, what I've seen," says collection and distribution coordinator for Toys For Tots, Dave Isbell.
Isbell says tough economic times are behind the increasing demand for toys.
"The kids will go from 6 thousand to probably 7 thousand that we'll help this year," says Isbell.
Isbell says there is a silver lining to the 20% increase. He says more businesses around the area are stepping up to take part in the toy collections.
"Our box distribution is up this year. We have more outlets so people will be giving more...This area has always been good with giving. They see the need and they step up," says Isbell.
Plus, Isbell says community members are also helping with the donations.
"In the harder the times, the deeper they dig. I think it closes the ranks of people...We've all been there. We've all had the need and now the need is prevalent in this area now...A lot of agencies need help and we're just one of them but we help a lot of people," says Isbell.
The Toys For Tots kick off is Saturday, November 21st at the Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City. The event starts at noon.
