(photo: JCCA Board Members Ted Christoff, Ted Wray and Treasurer Steve Patch present a check to Mike Brown, Toys for Tots coordinator.)

The membership of Jackson Commercial Contractors Association has once again supported the annual toy and fund-raising drive of Toys for Tots.  Each year, at the JCCA Christmas Party, members participate in the drive by donating toys and dollars for the Jackson Toys for Tots effort.  At this year’s party, members donated a total of $1,171 and a substantial quantity of toys.

One week before the annual party, a call went out to the JCCA for help with one specific toy.  Toys for Tots volunteers asked if JCCA could buy a 12 speed bicycle for a special girl.  Before the day was out, dozens of members offered to participate in the cost of the bike.   As a result, several bikes were donated and cash contributions allowed Toys for Tots to purchase a large quantity of toys.

In Jackson, Toys for Tots supplies more than 20,000 toys to families in need.  Organizer Mike Brown, celebrating more than 40 years volunteering for the cause, works with the Salvation Army and the United States Marine Corps to collect, sort, and wrap toys that are then donated to families who have requested assistance.

The toy collection deadline has passed and now volunteers are working at the Salvation Army preparing toys and gift baskets.   JCCA members volunteer their time in addition to the contributions of toys and money.

According to JCCA Board Member Ted Christoff, the JCCA raised 17% more money this year over last.  “We are truly honored to be associated with such fine and generous people,” said Christoff.  “The JCCA is proud to support Toys for Tots and several other organizations and initiatives throughout the year.”