Toys for Tots Marathon Weekend kicks off at Fresno's River Park

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The marathon Toys for Tots donation weekend is now underway.

People stopped by River Park all day Friday to drop off new unwrapped toys. This year's goal is 90 thousand toys.

Santa Claus got some help from local construction crews, who came with their equipment full of toys to kick off this year's Toys for Tots Marathon Weekend. The contractors come out every year to donate toys to the boys and girls of Fresno County.

"It's a great way for us to bring awareness to the Toys for Tots campaign and get everyone involved in the construction industry to donate to such a great cause," said Blair Sobba with Associated General Contractors.

Our ABC30 viewers have been eagerly awaiting Marathon Weekend like Lisa Kauls and her son Nick. Lisa says she enjoys giving back with her son.

"We're going to keep up the tradition, and still donate, and help out the community because someday we might be there, you never know," she said.

"It will make them feel good, like you're helping someone out for the Christmas year," Nick Kauls said.

Throughout the morning, residents and businesses stopped by to donate cash or toys. The Marine Corps League has been working nonstop to collect unwrapped gifts for boys and girls 12 and under and say the need is great this year.

"Close to 90,000 children that would go without a toy, so when you come out and donate every penny counts. We want every child in Fresno County to get a toy this year," said Toys for Tots Co-Coordinator Virginia Cardinal.

Just a few days ago, there were only 7,000 toys, but organizers say the generosity of the community shines bright during Marathon Weekend. That holiday spirit is what's encouraging many to stop by and spread Christmas joy to all.

"I am very thankful for everything I have. I'm very fortunate, very lucky and I want all the other children to be able to have that too," said Debbie Maggy of Clovis.

The Marine Corps League is hoping Valley residents hear the call to help and donate a toy during the Toys for Tots Marathon Weekend so they can help every child have a Christmas.