KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The holiday spirit is in full swing in Keene as Walier Chevrolet on Winchester Street invites the community to participate in their annual Toys for Tots toy drive. Residents are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys anytime between now and next Tuesday, Dec. 10. The toy drive culminates with a live broadcast by Dan Mitchell from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Walier Chevrolet, featuring a festive lineup of special guests.

This year’s toy drive is particularly meaningful as Keene celebrates 55 years of the Toys for Tots program, a tradition started by local legend Wally Reney in 1969. Reney, who retired in 2019 after decades of dedication, helped bring Christmas joy to thousands of children in the community. Over the years, he worked with more than 50 organizations and collected over 120,000 toys for children in need.

The Toys for Tots program has a rich history dating back to 1947, when Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks, inspired by his wife Diane, launched the first toy drive in Los Angeles. That initial effort gathered and distributed 5,000 toys, and by 1948, the program had expanded to Marine Reserve sites nationwide.

Toys for Tots has long been supported by public figures, including Walt Disney, who designed its first logo—a three-car train—while Bill Hendricks served as Warner Brothers Studios’ Director of Public Relations.

In 1991, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation was established to oversee the program, ensuring it continues to deliver joy to children across the nation. Today, the foundation manages donations, promotes the program, and handles day-to-day operations.

The Keene community has consistently demonstrated its generosity, and this year promises to be no different. With your support, Toys for Tots will continue its mission of making the holidays brighter for children in need.

Mark your calendars and bring your toy donations to Walier Chevrolet before December 10th to join this heartwarming cause.