Broome Toys for Tots Coordinator on Southern Tier Close Up

The head of the Broome County Toys for Tots program, Binghamton Police Officer Chris Marshall is featured on the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up as the effort to give toys to children throughout Broome County is set to get underway.

Officer Marshall says the Broome County Toys for Tots has been in operation since 1962 and every toy collected and every dollar donated stays in Broome County.

The Broome County Toys for Tots operated by Binghamton area police agencies and volunteers is separate from other Toys for Tots programs.

This year, the program will be headquartered at the former Bon Ton store at the Oakdale Mall, which will open on Monday, November 25 and operate Monday - Friday 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Residents can sign children up for gifts December 2-14.  New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the headquarters or at barrels located at the Binghamton, Johnson City, Vestal, Binghamton University and State Police departments as well as the Broome County Sheriff's office.  Barrels for the local program are marked BROOME COUNTY TOYS FOR TOTS.

Officer Marshall has complete details on requirements for signing up for the program, the upcoming Fill the Cruiser event and making donations of toys and money on this weekend's program.

Information is also available at the Broome County Toys for Tots facebook page. The phone number for the headquarters at the Mall will be (607) 779-8948.

Southern Tier Close Up is heard Saturdays at  6 am on 98.1 The Hawk.