Dec 4, 2024 By Karen Mansfield 2 min read

Observer-Reporter

Colby Jeffrey, fourth from right, is shown at last year’s Fill the Box Truck for Toys event at Texas Roadhouse in Washington.

A Toys for Tots annual tradition continues on Sunday, when Colby Jeffrey hosts Colby’s Fill the Box Truck for Toys for Tots at Texas Roadhouse, 311 Washington Road, Washington. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Jeffrey, 16, started the event 11 years ago, when he was 5, and it has grown over the past decade.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support from the people of Washington County,” said Colby. “My goal this year is to collect 2,500 toys. But no matter the number, as long as we can bring joy to children who might not otherwise receive gifts this holiday season, that’s what truly matters.”

Colby’s mother, Kristin Bergman, credited the generosity of the community for the fundraiser’s growth. Berkshire Hathaway Realtors donates the box truck, and the Lone Pine Volunteer Fire Department lends an assist.

Lone Pine Fire Department will host its Light Up Night and Dinner with Santa celebration that evening.

“I’m incredibly proud of Colby’s dedication year after year,” said Bergman. “Every toy represents a smile on a child’s face, and that’s what Christmas is all about.”

Colby collected 200 toys in the first year, and has collected more than 1,000 toys at the annual event in recent years. He’s collected more than 10,000 toys since he held the first toy collection.

The drive is open to everyone. Donations of new, unwrapped toys are encouraged, to help make the holiday season special for children in need.

For more information, contact Craig Jeffrey at 412-610-2819.