Although many began collecting toys earlier, last Saturday was the official Clear Valley Community Toys for Tots day, with eight local businesses hosting drop off boxes, including Brickyard Bar & Grill, Clear Lake BP Station, Clearwater Corners, Flintstones Bar, Clearwater American Legion, Clearwater Travel Plaza, Clearwater Outlet Recreation, and Clearwater Coborn’s. 

Members of the Clearwater Fire Dept. joined in the fun, stopping by a few of the participating businesses and helping to draw attention with the flashing lights of their fire engine. 

This year is the 75th anniversary of Toys for Tots, a national charitable program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Along with toys, books, and other gifts collected each December, Toys for Tots also provides support year-round to less fortunate families experiencing challenges and exceptional circumstances.