Massive Toy Drive To Be Held At Nassau Coliseum On Dec. 6

UNIONDALE, NY — One of the nation’s largest Toys for Tots collection drives — an event that was inaugurated by Joe LaPadula and Jon Holzer of Martino Auto Concepts of Glen Cove — returns for its 10th year, and will once again be turning Nassau Coliseum into a massive toy collection area.

Last year’s event generated more than 55,000 contributions toward Toys for Tots Long Island’s annual mission to distribute hundreds of thousands of toys to deserving children in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. However, the need for assistance is expected to be especially acute as a result of the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

“It is heartbreaking how many families are struggling this holiday season, and makes it even more important to spread holiday cheer by giving to those who are less fortunate,” Nassau County Executive Laura Curran said. “I am glad we are able to safely hold this annual Toys for Tots drive at Nassau Coliseum as a way to bring joy to deserving children and families across the County, and I hope more residents than ever will come out to drop off toys and support the good cause. Thank you to Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, Nassau County PD, Martino Auto Concepts and the US Marines, for making sure the 10th Annual Toys for Tots donation event goes off without a hitch.”

To better protect donors and volunteers, this year’s toy drive, which will be conducted rain, shine or snow from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Dec. 6 in the parking lot of Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, will be an entirely drive-thru event in which donors will stay in their cars at all times. All volunteers and donors will be required to wear personal protective equipment in accordance with Centers for Disease Control coronavirus prevent protocols, and Nassau County PD officers will be on hand to direct and manage traffic.

Residents can also support Toys for Tots at drop-off locations in their community throughout the holiday season. Visit toysfortots.org to find a location near you or to make a monetary donation.