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Annual Toys for Tots day of giving set for December 3 at Aqueduct Racetrack

by Pat McKenna

The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced that its annual "Toys for Tots” day of giving will take place on Saturday, December 3, Cigar Mile Day, at Aqueduct Racetrack. 

The event is a cherished, longtime holiday tradition at the Big A. The day of giving is being offered in partnership with the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation. 

Now in its 75th year, Toys for Tots collects and distributes new, unwrapped toys to local children in need each holiday season. There will be several ways to contribute during the weekend of giving – at donation boxes at the Turf and Field entrance and the Clubhouse lobby by the escalator at Aqueduct, and online as well. 

Fans can donate online at https://www.toysfortots.org/donate/ – using a credit card with a secure one-step process; or by selecting and donating toys through the organization’s virtual toy box. You can also give with a check made out to the “Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation” and mailed to: U.S. Marine Corps; Attention: GySgt, John Sardine; 605 Stewart Avenue; Garden City, N.Y. 11530. 

“Ensuring that needy children throughout New York City and across Long Island get to enjoy the holidays always makes this weekend of giving extra special,” said Pat McKenna, NYRA’s Vice President, Communications. “Racing fans have been generous in the past and we look forward to their continued and heartfelt commitment to our community.” 

As part of its support of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation, NYRA is making a financial contribution to the organization. Toys for Tots is also supported by generous contributions from the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (NYTHA) and thoroughbred owner Harold Lerner. 

“NYTHA salutes the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation and their efforts in getting toys to underprivileged children in the area,” said NYTHA President Joe Appelbaum. “Our horsemen take a lot of pride in supporting these children and making sure they can enjoy a great holiday.” 

Lerner agreed, calling his support of Toys for Toys a way of making the holidays more meaningful for everyone. 

“Toys for Tots is an incredible organization that supports countless children and families here in New York,” Lerner said. “It is an honor to be able to support their important work, and I thank NYRA for once again committing to a day of giving. It's our goal to make kids smile, especially at this time of year, and we want to reach as many children as possible.” 

About The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation 

The Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit organization authorized by the U.S. Marine Corps and the Department of Defense to provide fundraising and other support for the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Now in its 75th year, Toys for Tots provides joy and a message of hope to economically disadvantaged children through the gift of a new toy during the holiday season. Their gifts offer these children recognition and a positive memory they will cherish for a lifetime. Many of the gifts they provide, such as books, games and sports equipment, make a significant contribution to the educational, social and physical development of these children. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org.