NORWICH – A number of community fundraisers as well as an influx of people in the giving spirit this holiday season has landed the Marine Toys-for-Tots Foundation headquartered in Norwich in favorable standing as Christmas approaches.

From December 10 through December 16, Toys-for-Tots in Norwich had donated Christmas presents to 565 families – 1,100 children – with plenty to spare thanks to numerous community events that benefited the not-for-profit organization.

Toys-for-Tots volunteer Teresa Foster-Jones says that every year, they kick-off the holiday season by shopping at corporate sponsor Toys-R-Us. When supplies run short, she said they turn to other corporate sponsor WalMart, but this year they haven't had to do so yet in light of the many donations.

“We'd like to thank the community in general,” said Foster-Jones. “The [toy] boxes are coming in more full than ever, and we're very grateful. There are many families who turn to [Toys-for-Tots] as a means of having a present under the tree for their children on Christmas day; that's what this is all about.”

Last Tuesday, December 13, Label Gallery in Norwich hosted a spaghetti dinner catered by Nina's Pizzeria to benefit Toys-for-Tots.

“The goal was to contribute to the Toys-for-Tots cause while also providing families in the area with an opportunity to have a full meal at a very affordable price,” said Event Coordinator Erin Shapley-Blenis.