BECKLEY, WV (WOAY)—Little General is back to ensure our local children in need have a Merry Christmas by making a generous donation to Toys for Tots.
This allows the organization to provide new, unwrapped toys to lift the spirit of children who might otherwise miss out on the joyful Christmas experience.
“At Little General, we’re honored to be able to help out many charities throughout the year — one of our favorites is Toys for Tots, said Charles Houck, director of public relations for the stores. He added that Raleigh County and all of Southern West Virginia benefit during Christmas. “They’re so committed to what they do and we’re committed to what they do.”
Instead of her own Christmas presents, in 2014 at the age of seven Tristan Smith decided to bestow gifts on children staying at Burlington United Methodist Family Services. Little General took notice and she has been presenting Toys for Tots check donations ever since.
“I’ve always been one that loves to help; it’s just in my blood to be a helping hand,” said Little General Ambassador Smith. “When I found Toys for Tots I could tell it was what I was meant to do. Seeing the little kids faces when they get the toys — ’cause not everybody has the chance to get them — makes me appreciate what I have.”
Toys for Tots cherishes Little General’s $5,000 donation that every year helps them make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged children.
“Especially this year; the economy is really bad, our donations are down, the toy drive is down, and every dollar helps,” said Toys for Tots SWV Coordinator JP Stevens.
For Tristan, the deeper meaning of this donation always resonates with her.
“If you’re doing something for somebody else and not just taking for yourself,” said Smith. “I’ve been here for almost ten years now, and every year is just something special,”
