More than 200 bags of toys distributed via Toys for Tots/Kids in Alexandria

Joe Washek carries a bag of toys to be distributed as part of the Toys for Tots/Toys for Kids program on Friday, Dec. 17. Travis Gulbrandson / Alexandria Echo Press

By Travis Gulbrandson

December 22, 2021 06:00 AM

More than 200 toy bags and 200 meal bags were distributed as part of Toys for Tots/Kids on Friday, Dec. 17, in Alexandria.

In addition to toys, approximately 200 meals were distributed by the Runestone Detachment on Friday. Travis Gulbrandson / Alexandria Echo Press

Organized by the Marine Corps League, Runestone Detachment 1409, Toys for Kids started "about seven years ago" and the Toys for Tots program has been operating locally for the past two years, said program coordinator Grant Haugen.

Joe Washek and Grant Haugen carry bags of toys to be distributed on Friday, Dec. 17. Travis Gulbrandson / Alexandria Echo Press

The Runestone Detachment collected the toys via the many Toys for Tots boxes that were on display at community businesses.

Meals were provided through Love INC by Cullen's Home Center and Alexandria Covenant Church, according to Haugen.

The Reach Church provided a location for toy distribution Friday, and additional storage space was provided by Love INC.

Love INC provided additional storage space for toys collected as part of the Toys for Tots/Toys for Kids program. Travis Gulbrandson / Alexandria Echo Press

"There were many volunteers helping from the Alexandria Covenant Church, Cullen's Home Center and the Reach Church, and Love INC and the Marine Corps League to make this a successful event," Haugen said in an email.

Dave Wosmek collects a bag of toys to be distributed as part of the Toys for Tots/Toys for Kids program. Travis Gulbrandson / Alexandria Echo Press

Both Toys for Kids and the Toys for Tots organizations are 501 (c)(3) non-profit organizations.

Related Topics: DOUGLAS COUNTY ALEXANDRIA

By Travis Gulbrandson

Travis Gulbrandson covers several beats, including Osakis School Board and Osakis City Council, along with the Brandon-Evansville School Board. His focus will also be on crime and court news.