Highway Superintendents with Chenango County Highway Departments with this year's donation to Toys for Tots. In addition, the departments also raised $303 in donations, which was matched by the Chenango County Association of Superintendents for a total donation of $606. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

CHENANGO COUNTY — The Chenango County Association of Superintendents, made up of Chenango County Highway Departments, held their annual Christmas party at Taylor’s Country House on Thursday, December 14, where they also made their annual donation to the Chenango County Toys for Tots.

The tradition began more than 25 years ago, and Superintendent of Highways for the Town of North Norwich Joe Eldred said it was started by vendor and veteran Bill Bellen and the Association’s Executive Committee.

“Bill Bellen has been one of the main people behind everything here, making sure it keeps going on each year,” he said.

Since then, highway department employees have collected toy and cash donations to be given to the Chenango County Toys for Tots each year. This year they were able to donate a large amount of toys, as well as $303 in donations. Cash donations were also matched by the Association, bringing the total up to $606.

“Since I've been involved with Toys for Tots, they’ve been very generous. They do this every year and we’re thankful and grateful,” said Chenango County Toys for Tots Coordinator Terry Potter. “There’s no way we could do what we do here in Chenango County without the support and generosity of the individuals here at the Chenango County Highway Department.”

Potter also presented the Association with a Certificate of Appreciation to thank them for their years of support. The certificate was accepted by Joe Eldred on behalf of Bill Bellen.

“On behalf of Toys for Tots thank you for your continued generosity,” said Potter. “Hopefully it’s just a reminder to you guys of what we’re doing and the mission. And on here it says, ‘Your generous contributions have enabled the Marine Corps to bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to America’s less fortunate,’ and we’re not immune to that here in Chenango County.”

All the donations collected in Chenango County will benefit Chenango County families in need this holiday season.

Eldred said the highway departments continue to support Toys for Tots year after year because “it’s just a great foundation to give back to the Marines, the military, and the families that are in need.”

“We appreciate everything that Toys for Tots does for the community,” he added.

More information on Toys for Tots can be found at ToysforTots.org.