Goodyear, Marines collaborate on Toys for Tots

AKRON — Sometimes, Santa needs a helping hand.

That's why Goodyear and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve are continuing a partnership they began seven years ago to collect new toys and monetary donations for the Marines Toys for Tots Foundation.

"Toys for Tots distributes toys and books to millions of less fortunate children each year. We wouldn't be able to reach so many children if not for the support of our corporate partners such as Goodyear," said retired Marine Col. Ted Silvester, vice president of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

In Ohio, Goodyear will open the blimp hangar in Mogadore to allow visitors to drive through and make donations to the Toys for Tots efforts. Visitors can stop between 1 and 9 p.m. Dec. 8, 9 and 10 to contribute to the collection of new, unwrapped toys or to make a monetary donation.

A similar event will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3 at the blimp hangar in Pompano Beach, Fla. This event also will provide guests with a chance to see Wingfoot One up close.

"We take great pride in our Goodyear Blimp crews teaming up with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to support Toys for Tots," said Paul Fitzhenry, the firm's senior vice president for global communications.

"Through this program, we open our doors to the community and encourage our blimp fans to share in the spirit of giving that defines and gives meaning to the holiday season."

Over the past six years, Goodyear and the Marines have collected more than 80,000 toys and $200,000 for Toys for Tots.