MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA – November 2024 – This year, Mendocino County’s Toys for Tots campaign is off to an exciting start, with a fundraising event set to take place on November 23rd. The event will be held at the Ukiah Veterans Hall, located at 293 Seminary Avenue, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Community members are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation, and in exchange, they will have the opportunity to get a picture with Santa Claus. The event will also feature delicious frybread tacos for $8, including a drink. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Toys for Tots program.
For over two decades, Tracy Sutherland, of Mendocino County, has been the dedicated coordinator of the local Toys for Tots program, bringing holiday cheer to children in need. While the national program has existed for many years, Sutherland has been a key figure in making sure that every Christmas season, the children of Mendocino County receive a toy to brighten their holiday. Her co-coordinator for many years, Jason Hanover, has now moved on to a new role as head coordinator for Toys for Tots in Lake County, but both remain passionate about the success of the program in their communities.
Marvin Fuller was the originating coordinator to bring Toys For Tots in Mendocino County years ago, Fuller sadly passed away and since forth Sutherland has maintained the operation thanks to the tireless support of local volunteers, businesses, and residents. In fact, it is a community-driven effort with contributions from countless individuals—like Francy Henry, Shashoni Redenbaugh (And her awesome Daughter Zoey!) as well as many others—who have worked behind the scenes to ensure the program remains strong.
Following the fundraiser, the official toy drive will begin in December, with collection events taking place throughout the county. In Ukiah, toys will be Distributed at the Veterans Hall on December 14th and 15th, with times to be announced. For updates and more information, community members are encouraged to follow the Mendocino County Toys for Tots page on Facebook. Another collection event will be held in Covelo, CA, on December 18th.
For more information, visit the Mendocino County Toys for Tots Facebook page and stay tuned for updates on toy collection events and other ways to get involved.
Event Details:
November 23, 2024
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Bring a new, unwrapped toy and get a picture with Santa
Ukiah Veterans Hall
293 Seminary Ave, Ukiah, CA
$8 for frybread tacos & drink
Toy Distribution Events
December 14th & 15th at the Ukiah Veterans Hall
December 18th in Covelo, CA
Follow Mendocino County Toys for Tots on Facebook for times and updates.
