Photos: Be Proud’s Toys For Tots Celebration

New York Steak House (2007 Emmons Avenue) had a packed room on Monday, when local leaders and residents gathered together for Be Proud Foundation’s second annual Toys for Tots celebration.

The group scored dozens of toys to brighten up the lives of underprivileged children, marking the second year an organization serving the Russian-speaking community has contributed to the nationwide toy drive

A pair of United States Marines came to thank the community for their support, and handed out awards to local organizers and businesses.

An exact tally of what was collected isn’t available, but the group aimed to exceed the $1,000 in donations and 100+ gifts they pulled together last year. The trove of toys – and monetary donations – will be combined with those collected by Councilman Lew Fidler and the 41st Assembly District in the city’s largest Toys for Tots drive.

And don’t forget – if you still want to contribute, Fidler is having a Grand Finale Party tonight from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at the 41st Assembly District Democrats Club (2952 Avenue R). If you’re looking to give, bring a new, unwrapped toy or send a check to purchase toys (made payable to “Community First Toy Drive” and mailed to “Community First Toy Drive – 41st A.D. Dems Club; c/o Bryan Lee, Executive Director; 585 Mayfair Drive South; Brooklyn, NY 11234″).