Braintree officials hope Toys for Tots campaign to be a success

By Jessica Bartlett, Town Correspondent

Braintree selectmen and other town officials will host the Second Annual Braintree Christmas Party to benefit Toys for Tots.

As more and more families are struggling financially, demand for the holiday toys has increased. As a result, the charity, run by the United States Marine Corps, is asking community members to do what they can to help the organization keep up with the demand.

“Theres always a need. The demand has been increasing for the last couple of years. With the economic downturn, its always a challenge, and im hearing secondhand its always been a challenge for the marines to meet that demand. Every little bit helps,” said Councilor-At-Large Sean Powers.

Not only is the event a great way to give back, but the festivities are also just fun, Powers said. With free food donated by Granite Grill, and with free DJ entertainment sponsored by South Shore Entertainment, the evening should be a good time.

“This is a great opportunity for people from all over Braintree to come together and join in celebrating the holiday spirit while supporting a great cause,” Powers said.

It initially started as just a holiday party, that evolved into something bigger. After last year’s massive success - with over 150 people collecting over 200 toys, the administration knew they would have to do a similar event again.

This time around, officials have even higher expectations.

“We know the Braintree community will respond even bigger this year in helping to make this Christmas a special one to those that need this help the most,” Councilor Chuck Kokoros said in a release.

Even though many Braintree families are struggling themselves, people feel strongly about donating to this cause, Powers said.

“They know families in Braintree and allover that have nothing. For programs like this, some kids wouldn’t have a Christmas at all,” Powers said.

The event will be on Thursday, Dec. 8 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Granite Grill on Granite Street in Braintree. Price of admission is a new, unwrapped toy for boys or girls, age appropriate from 3-years-old to 12-years-old.

For those unable to make the party, Boy Scouts Troop 138 will also hold a Toys for Tots collection campaign from 12 p.m. till 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3 at Braintree Town Hall. Radio Station WROR will be there with games and prizes.  Santa may also be there, so people are encouraged to bring a camera.