Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas. The program was founded in 1947 by reservist Major Bill Hendricks.

The mission of the program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. The objectives are to help less fortunate children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation’s most valuable resources – our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.

The program is not limited to only children of certain ages, but it is aimed at children up to age 12. However, some local campaigns may extend the age limit based on the needs of their community. The toys are distributed through local social welfare agencies, churches and other community groups which have the infrastructure to identify the children who are most in need.

Toys for Tots has grown significantly since its inception and has distributed over 566 million toys to over 258 million children. The program is recognized as one of the most impactful and enduring charitable initiatives in the United States, bringing joy and a message of hope to less fortunate children at Christmas.