Virginia Railway Express riders gave from their hearts and wallets Wednesday and donated a truck full of toys and nearly $19,000 in the commuter rail agency’s annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Campaign. Riders were asked to leave toys on their seats when exiting morning trains and train conductors collected cash and checks from riders, which were then given to the Toys for Tots Program. “I am overwhelmed by the generosity of VRE riders and the number of toys and donations we received today. Undoubtedly Scrooge does not ride VRE,” said Doug Allen, CEO of VRE.
Marine Corps Staff Sergeants Eichelberger and Herbert presented Mr. Allen a Certificate of Appreciation from the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for VRE’s participation in the annual Toys for Tots event. VRE riders have been one of the largest contributors in our service area to the Toys for Tots Program in recent years. VRE and U.S Marine Corps staff will continue Toys for Tots collections this Saturday at stations served during VRE’s 18th annual Operation Life Saver Santa Train events.
Toys for Tots campaigns are held in over 290 communities throughout the 50 states. Marines collect new, unwrapped toys from October 1st through December 21st. Thereafter, Marines distribute toys to the needy children of their community through local social welfare agencies and church groups.
