by Taylor Sterling, Station Manager and Morning Show Co-Host on WTBQ in Warwick
A little over eight years ago our County Executive, Steve Neuhaus, was telling me a story about a trip he made around the county in early winter. He saw children of our military standing outdoors without proper coats on ahead of the Christmas holiday. We both agreed if the parents of these children did not have enough funds for winter coats, surely there would be no toys for the holiday.
Neuhaus sparked the idea for the annual Toys for Military Tots Drive, which is now in its eighth year! This past Monday, October 16, 2023, the drive began with our annual photo which included Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, Pete Rollins, representative of the Disabled American Veterans of Orange County, MSgt Gisela Fredenburg representing Stewart Air Force Base, and members of thethe Nam Knights. Supervisor of the Town of Warwick Michael Sweeton and Supervisor of the Town of Monroe Tony Cardone were also in attendance, along with Frank Truatt, the owner of WTBQ Radio. Annual supporters Assemblyman Karl Brabenec, Legislator Joe Minuta, Senior Investigator & Public Info officer of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Samantha Pascal, County Director of Tourism & Film Amanda Dana, President of John S. Burke Catholic John Douthit, Clerk of the Town of Deerpark Flo Santini, Susan Dean of McKesson, and Stephen Kitar of Sam’s Meat Warehouse joined as well.
For the drop off locations please refer to the poster or CLICK HERE.
The last day for dropping off toys is December 8, 2023.
The stories that are shared after the toys are opened on Christmas morning would bring tears to your eyes. Children who would have had nothing for the holidays however now, with your generosity, will make their wishes come true.
Please help these children of our military and disabled American veterans smile and giggle with excitement when they open their gifts this holiday season. These military parents fought and are still fighting for our freedom so we may spend the holidays with our families.
As Leo Kaytes, Sr. always reminds us… remember the reason!
