Toy’s for Tots donations are underway

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. — The Delaware Natural Resources Police delivered a boatload of toys to the Indian River Outlet early Friday morning. Officials spoke about the 11-year tradition.

Delaware Natural Resources Police Sgt. Andy Manning said, “Every year, it’s remarkable. From where it started with just a few boxes, now we do it statewide. To be able to provide toys to Toys for Tots, who generously distributes them to the community, is amazing.”

He added that it’s great to have community support as they collect gifts across the state.

Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Greg Patterson said, “You have something like this, where people come together to take care of their neighbors.”

The twist: Instead of arriving by sleigh, the toys are delivered by boat.

Sgt. Manning explained, “We did that a few years ago. We just wanted to mix it up and draw more attention to it.”

Patterson noted, “Over the last five years, they’ve collected about 6,000 toys.”

This year, Santa said he’s impressed with the support.

Santa Claus remarked, “I think we should probably have around 1,500 toys and 30 or 40 bicycles for the kids in our area.”

As much as the event helps those in need, it also benefits officials.

“It’s huge for our group as a whole, just to make sure the community knows we’re here for them, looking out for them, and ensuring that everyone has a good Christmas,” Sgt. Manning said.

He added, “We see good, we see bad. We deal with both. But this is all 100% good, and it makes us happy to be able to provide this.”

Sgt. Manning emphasized the importance of looking out for others this holiday season, noting, “You never know who may need help.”