“Let’s make this happen for our kids,” expressed Jonathan Yazzie, an organizer for Toys for Tots in the Navajo Nation.
Yazzie has been part of Toys for Tots for the last 12 years, and he says he usually receives donations of about 4,000 toys, but this year he’s gotten only 100 so far.
He says due to the pandemic, many businesses that used to donate toys or money couldn’t help.
“This year it’s been hard, a good nine months. The pandemic has hit us hard. A lot of our parents are home, no job, so they’re kind of looking forward to Toys for Tots this year again.”
Some of the kids’ wish lists are heartbreaking, says Yazzi. He says many mentioned losing a grandma and how their parents have no money because they lost their job due to the pandemic.
But Yazzi remains hopeful, even if there are only a few days left till Christmas.
“I know it’s late, but I believe in miracles, especially this time of the year,” said Yazzie.
He believes every child deserves a toy for Christmas, especially during a pandemic, and is determined to make it happen for his community of Tolani Lake, Arizona.
“So, I’m reaching out to other organizations like the Phoenix Suns, the Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Mercury, and the Phoenix Coyotes organizations. A lot of my wish lists want a Devin Booker jersey, the shoes, LeBron, Larry Fitzgerald jerseys,” stated Yazzie.
Toys for Tots is accepting donations via Zelle and in person. If you would like to donate, email DebGibsonMT@yahoo.com for details.
