The Marine Corps Reserve has officially opened its 2026 holiday collection season in Lewiston, Idaho. Sgt. Jason Brown is leading the local effort to gather gifts for children across North Central Idaho and southeastern Washington.
The campaign targets families in Nez Perce, Clearwater, Latah, Lewis and Idaho counties within the state. It also extends its reach into Asotin, Garfield and Whitman counties in Washington. Donation drop-off points are established in Lewiston, Clarkston, Moscow, Pullman and Grangeville. An additional collection site is located at Bottoms Up in Juliaetta.
Last year, the Lewiston chapter distributed more than 4,497 toys to 1,453 children. This local effort contributes to a national program that provided more than 24 million toys to over 11 million children nationwide.
Specific Needs for Older Children
Organizers are requesting new, unused and unwrapped items suitable for ages 0 to 15. They have identified a particular shortage of gifts for older children, specifically those between 8 and 15 years old. Suggested donations include craft kits, makeup sets, Legos, Nerf toys and fishing equipment.
Local retailers, banks, medical offices and other businesses are participating as collection sites. Monetary contributions are also accepted via check or online payments. Checks should be mailed to Toys for Tots, C/O Jason Brown, P.O. Box 1553, Lewiston, ID 83501.
Application Process
Families seeking assistance can expect applications to open the week before Thanksgiving. The intake process will be handled at St. Vincent de Paul in Clarkston. Final application deadlines and further details will be announced through the campaign’s official page and website.
Those with questions about volunteering, donating or applying for aid can contact the campaign directly at 208-510-2939.