Douglas Students Collect Toys For Tots

Published January 2008

By Nicol Jenkins
Editor

Carrying a bag overflowing with toys and stuffed animals, Maria Redondo transformed into Santa Claus- minus the suit.

“This can change one child’s life,” said the 18-year-old as she swung the bag into a truck filled with toys.

Redondo was among many students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland to collect toys for underprivileged children. More than 4,000 toys, from Beanie Babies to Barbie Dolls and basketballs to board games, were collected and donated to Toys For Tots. The Marines recently stopped by Douglas High to pick up the toys overflowing in the school’s main office.

“I’m amazed,” said Cesar Dones, a Staff Sergeant with the Marines. “But I was expecting it from them. They always do a good job collecting toys and helping the community.”

In fact, this was the fourth year that the school’s Student Government Association (SGA) has organized the toy drive for the holiday season.

“We’re trying to get kids to understand that there are people out there with more need, and it’s a benefit for them to know that the toys are going to underprivileged children,” said David Grad, SGA advisor.

About 26 classes have a 100 percent participation rate and those students will be treated to a free lunch. “We are ecstatic with the high amount of participation we have received and hope to continue our tradition of outstanding charity,” he said.

SGA Vice President Sydney Chernoff said the group plans to make the drive an annual occurrence. “It’s important to give back to the community you live in and it’s especially important to work hard to make sure others have a great holiday season,” Chernoff said.