CLIFTON PARK — The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Dunkin’ franchisee and civilian volunteers loaded thousands of toys onto a holiday convoy on Friday, Dec. 10 to embark on the annual two-day delivery tour last weekend.
Capital Region Toys for Tots announced last week the holiday convoy, comprising numerous tractor trailers, trucks and vans, will officially be named “Convoy for Tots in Memory of Tom Disinger.” The Air Force veteran spent many seasons supporting Capital Region Toys for Tots and regularly staffed the front desk of the warehouse, greeting all who came through the doors to donate or volunteer.
“We are thrilled to announce the 2021 Capital Region Toys for Tots holiday convoy is being named for a man who devoted his life to helping others. Tom made the world a brighter place and the Capital Region Toys for Tots family will carry on his legacy of cheer and goodwill as we ride in his honor this holiday season,” said Marine Gunnery Sgt. (Ret) Albert Roman, local coordinator of the Capital Region Toys for Tots campaign. “We appreciate the continued support and dedication from our community partners led by Dunkin’, whose franchisees and volunteers stepped up today to help us load the convoy and keep our annual toy-delivery campaign running. The holiday season is all about giving back and the generosity of our community partners is a true example of holiday spirit.”
Dunkin’ franchisees donated complimentary coffee and baked goods to volunteers and assisted with sorting and loading thousands of toys onto vehicles ahead of the holiday convoy across upstate New York this weekend.
“Dunkin’ is thrilled to bring the spirit of the holidays to children in need by supporting the efforts of the Marines who spearhead the Toys for Tots campaign. We commend the Marines, local law enforcement and all others involved for their dedication to this important holiday tradition,” said Capital Region Dunkin’ franchisee Natasha Teixeira. “We are happy to keep these dedicated volunteers running on Dunkin’ and provide a helping hand to prepare for the convoy, which has such a vital impact on families in our community.”
Since 2009, the annual Capital Region Toys for Tots holiday campaign has been bolstered by the support of Dunkin’, which has donated $375,000 to the program over the past 13 years. The Toys for Tots collection drive is currently underway at approximately 400 locations throughout the Capital District, including more than 100 local and regional Dunkin’ restaurants.
The “Convoy for Tots in Memory of Tom Disinger,” toured the state last weekend to deliver toys to children in need. Dozens of volunteers will be transported as part of the convoy on passenger buses, courtesy of CDTA and Upstate Transit of Saratoga.
Thousands of toys were delivered at each stop to local non-profit organizations for distribution to children they serve in their communities. Children and their families were invited to attend convoy pitstops to meet Santa, received cookies and a special stocking stuffer courtesy of Capital Region Toys for Tots. However, gifts will not be handed.
