Thousands of Toys for Tots filled the sanctuary of the Crossroads Church in Perry this week as the charity event again broke a new record for donations — and for families assisted at Christmastime.
Volunteers John and Linda Andorf of Perry, who spearheaded the collection campaign, said cash donations hit a new high this year, with private donors giving about $725 and the local grocery store round-ups netting $834 at the Perry Hy-Vee and $950 at the Perry Fareway.
“People in Perry were incredibly generous this year,” said John Andorf, who is also the mayor of Perry. “They realize there’s a need, and they showed they can meet it.” He said about half the toys came from local donors and the balance from the U.S. Marine Corps’ statewide Toys for Tots campaign.
“Again this year, the community and the Marine Corps came through in a big way with donations,” said Linda Andorf.
The Marines delivered their toy shipment Monday morning. The sorting and bagging take up Tuesday and Wednesday, and the toys will be distributed Friday at Crossroads Church.
A few of the volunteers assistig the Andorfs this year included Betty Hunt, Mary Kautzky, Sharon and Dennis Ulrich, Lisa Battani and Pat Mundy.
