Westchester and Putnam Toys for Tots Begin 2026 Toy Collection Drive

The Westchester and Putnam Counties Toys for Tots campaign officially began its 2026 collection season on October 27.

The kickoff event took place at Westy Self Storage in Elmsford. ShopRite of Elmsford provided food for the gathering. Volunteers and local organizations attended to receive collection boxes and posters. This distribution marks the start of a regional effort to gather new, unwrapped toys for children in need. The program relies on a network of community partners to move donations from donors to families.

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve has run the Toys for Tots program since 1947. Local chapters like the one in Westchester and Putnam Counties operate by soliciting donations from businesses, residents, and other groups. The campaign requires that all toys be new and unwrapped. Participants can register as drop sites to host a collection box at their location. They can also sign up as volunteers to help manage the distribution process. Alternatively, community groups can organize their own collection events to support the cause.

The campaign is now accepting registrations from businesses and residents across the two counties. Interested parties can sign up through the campaign website at westchesterputnam-ny.toysfortots.org. The drive aims to connect local generosity directly with children and families who face financial strain during the holidays. Each donated toy contributes to the total count of gifts distributed through the local volunteer network.