|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
 |
The Trainlift
Ten years ago the Delaware & Hudson division of the Canadian Pacific Railway was invited into a charitable partnership with the United States Marine Corp.
The intent was to aid the Marines in their Toys for Tots program by providing a special train to make stops in some of the most destitute regions of upstate NY. At each stop six U.S. Marines and train crew volunteers would distribute toys, hats, mittens, and other gifts to all of the children in attendance.
While we knew there was a significant need in these areas what we saw our first time out devastated us. We witnessed children arriving without jackets or shoes, this in the dead of winter; children who had NEVER received anything for Christmas. One woman in Port Henry told us "up 'till today I thought we had been forgotten".
They have not been forgotten.
This project, which started out humbly has blossomed...
beyond our wildest dreams. Initially our distribution was for 1000 toys to 800 children. Last years trip reached 6000 kids with over 10,000 toys handed out.
The need is definitely there.
This train will rumble on again this year as it did last year delivering not just toys, hats, and mittens to thousands of children. It will also be delivering, during the holiday season, a message of hope, a message that someone cares about these kids and that they will not have to go without.
|
|
