Each year, the United States Marine Corps Reserves oversees “Toys for Tots,” a holiday toy drive to benefit children in need, with a number of Chester County municipalities and government agencies participating as drop-box locations. Two area lawmakers whose offices have served as drop-off sites decided to take things to a new level this year.
Rep. Becky Corbin (R-155, which represents part of the Downingtown School District area) challenged Rep. Dan Truitt’s (R-156, which represents West Chester and part of the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District) office to collect more toys than hers. Starting in late October, residents of the 155th and 156th House districts began bringing new, unwrapped toys to the two locations. When their collection contest ended on Dec. 15, Truitt edged out Corbin, but the two gathered a combined 504 toys – up from their combined toy count collected in 2013.
“I issued the challenge to promote the spirit of giving and to raise awareness about the needs of children living in poverty,” said Corbin. “It was a good-natured way to have fun while encouraging constituents to become engaged in helping others. The way I see it, there could be no losers: The children were sure to win, no matter the outcome.”
Truitt echoed Corbin’s sentiment.
“This entire contest was about the kids. They are the true winners,” said Truitt. “While I am competitive in nature and like to win, I truly am impressed by the generosity of the people of Chester County, and especially the Greater West Chester area. I thank Becky for pushing me and my staff to participate on an even greater level. Together, we were able to make sure that 504 children will have a brighter holiday.”
Both Truitt and Corbin have been active in working to combat poverty in the Commonwealth. As members of the House Majority Policy Committee, each has co-chaired study groups aimed at helping people avoid and overcome economic hardship. Truitt co-chaired the “Life Skills” team with Rep. Rosemary Brown (R-Monroe/Pike), while Corbin joined Rep. Tommy Sankey (R-Clearfield) in leading the “Essentials” team. Truitt was focused on areas such as financial literacy and education. Corbin examined how the private sector and nonprofit organizations successfully aided individuals in need, with the hope that government could learn from and partner with them.
For more information, please visit www.RepCorbin.com or www.RepTruitt.com.
