The New York Racing Association (NYRA) will match all financial donations to
the United States Marines Toys for Tots campaign when it makes its annual visit
to Aqueduct on December 5-6.
With New York’s leading trainer, Gary Contessa, donating 10 percent of
whatever purse money his horses earn on December 5, for a minimum of $1,500, as
well as owner Harold Lerner’s contribution of $5,000, NYRA will be pledging at
least $6,500 additionally to the Toys for Tots program, which collects and
distributes new, unwrapped toys to children in need during the holiday season.
“Collecting for Toys for Tots has long been a holiday tradition at Aqueduct
and we believe the Foundation’s work is especially important during these
uncertain economic times,” NYRA President and CEO Charles Hayward said.
Fans can help by donating new, unwrapped toys or making financial
contributions next weekend at Aqueduct. Major Chuck Kilbride will be on the
first floor of the Clubhouse from noon to 2 p.m. (EST) collecting donations for
the Foundation, and the Marines will accept all new, unwrapped toys, cash, and
checks made payable to Toys for Tots.
Over the 62 years of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program,
Marines have distributed more than 400 million toys to more than 188 million
needy children. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is the fundraising, funding
and support organization for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots
Program. The Foundation was created at the behest of the U.S. Marine Corps and
provides support in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with the
Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, who directs the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys
for Tots Program. The Foundation has supported Toys for Tots since 1991.