BY BECCA JONES
Northern New Mexico Toy Drive

Northern New Mexico Toy Drive is teaming up with the Los Alamos High School NJROTC – ‘Topper Company’ to bring extra sparkle—and a lot of heart—to this year’s WinterFest Light Parade on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. The parade route is along Central Avenue in Los Alamos.

Parade-goers are encouraged to bundle up, line the route, and bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate. Throughout the parade, NJROTC “Elf-Cadets” will be walking alongside their version of Santa’s sleigh, collecting toys directly from spectators in support of the Toy Drive’s 2025 goal: providing gifts to 10,000 children across Northern New Mexico.

“We know WinterFest is already a favorite tradition for many families,” toy drive organizers said. “If you’re coming out to enjoy the lights and the parade, tossing a toy into the hands of one of our Elf-Cadets is an easy way to share that joy with a local kid who might otherwise go without.”

The Northern New Mexico Toy Drive partners with schools, nonprofits, tribal communities, and social service organizations across the region to match gifts with specific wish lists from children. Donations from events like the WinterFest Light Parade help fill in gaps and ensure that every child is remembered.

Community members are asked to donate new, unwrapped toys appropriate for children and teens. Items such as games, art supplies, sports equipment, building sets, dolls, STEM kits, and age-appropriate clothing and accessories are always in high demand.

LAHS NJROTC is also sponsoring a “Teen Drive” at Los Alamos High School. They are having a class competition to see which year (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior) can bring in the most gifts for teens their age, in support of the toy drive.

Whether you’re a longtime local or new to town, toy drive organizers and NJROTC, hope residents will see the parade as an opportunity to celebrate the season and give back.

“Grab your coat, bring a toy, and help brighten the holidays for a Northern New Mexico kid,” they said. “A small gift can make a big difference.”

The Northern New Mexico Toy Drive wishes to thank Petty Officer, Matt Bohlen and his ROTC Cadets for their commitment to community and looking for ways to be involved!

For more information about the Northern New Mexico Toy Drive, including other drop-off locations, events, and ways to donate, visit exittoydrive.com. For more information about LAHS NJROTC please visit toppernavy.org