By Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative

The 2023 CWEC U.S. Marine Toys for Tots campaign is underway, with toy donation boxes at more than 30 locations in area communities.

Christmas is a time of joy, happiness, and goodwill. It is a time of giving and helping those who are less fortunate than us, especially children. In our effort to accomplish the above, we are happy to once again partner with the U.S Marine Corps to make Christmas a little brighter for area children through the Toys for Tots program. We know that this year will once again be challenging to collect toys for area children.

Last year we were able to provide toys to more than 1,000 area children. All indications are we will need at least the same number of toys again this year. As you can imagine, it is a pretty daunting task to collect enough toys for that many children, especially with inflation still sticking around. This is where CWEC members can help. Help us spread a little Christmas joy this holiday season by donating a new unwrapped toy. All of the toys we collect are distributed locally.

To find the collection site nearest you, please see the accompanying list. If you would like us to do the shopping for you, you can make a check payable to Toys for Tots and mail it to us at Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative, PO Box 100, Rosholt, WI  54473. If you would like to donate online, go to http://iola-wi.toysfortots.org

Iola-Scandinavia locations

Bank First, 295 East State Street, Iola, 715-445-3211;

Iola-Scandinavia Elementary School, 450 East Division Street, Iola, 715-445-2411;

Iola-Scandinavia High School, 540 South Jackson Street, Iola, 715-445-2211;

Iola-Scandinavia Community Fitness & Aquatic Center, 445 S Jackson Street, Iola, 715-445-2411;

Iola Village Library, 180 South Main Street, Iola, 715-445-4330;

Premier Community Bank, 505 East State Drive Iola, 715-445-4700;

Silver Lake Lanes, N6311 State Road 49, Scandinavia, 715-467-2700.