MADAWASKA, Maine — The Meo Bosse Detachment Marine Corps League Toys for Tots is already gearing up for their annual Christmas toy drive in Aroostook County, and organizers want to bring a country music singer to the area for a fundraising concert.
“We need sponsors for this event,” said Rudy St. Peter, chairman of the local Toys for Tots.
The detachment wants to offer a concert in November, wherein the proceeds will go to the toy drive. Sponsorship funds would help defray costs associated with the event.
Georgette Jones, daughter of George Jones, will come to Aroostook County on Nov. 10 for the concert at the Caribou Performing Arts Center.
“If we get enough sponsors to cover the cost of the concert, then all the proceeds from the ticket sales will go toward Toys for Tots,” St. Peter said.
The Toys for Tots program was adopted in 1948 by the United States Marine Corps. With help from various public entertainment figures, such as Walt Disney, who created the iconic Toys for Tots train logo, the program took off and has thrived throughout the years, according to St. Peter.
Each year, the program raises more than $280 million and provides more than 16 million toys for children at Christmas. In Aroostook County, the Marine Corps is attempting to boost their contributions to the effort by putting on a benefit concert.
Any business or contributor interested in sponsoring the event is urged to go to the Northern Aroostook Toys for Tots Facebook page.
