The holiday spirit was aglow as the annual Toys for Tots campaign made a stop at the city of Kaneohe’s 3rd Annual Windward City Lights celebration Nov. 30.
The event featured rides and games for children, food and craft booths, entertainment by the Royal Hawaiian Band and the night’s main event, the official lighting of the city’s holiday lights by Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann.
As he looked into the crowd, Hannemann encouraged people across Hawaii to reach out to those in need.
“The most important part of the holiday season is that we think about helping others,” Hannemann said. “Everyone should be able to enjoy the spirit of Christmas.”
Marines were on hand at the celebration accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys for less-fortunate children in Hawaii.
The block party was one of the campaign’s many efforts to achieve this year’s goal of 40,000 toys.
While the Marines received a handful of donations, many potential donors spoke with them to find out how they could contribute.
“Lots of people have been stopping by to ask about the campaign and find out where they can donate,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Mick Wallace.
Donations to the Marine Corps Reserve’s annual Toys for Tots program are being accepted throughout the holiday season at businesses across Hawaii.
For a list of businesses, visit www.toysfortots.org.