Photos: Local Toy Drive Breaks Another Record; Totals 38,676 Toys In 11 Years

The city’s largest toy drive – organized right here in Southern Brooklyn – once again broke the record for number of toys collected in New York City, netting a whopping 8,674 toys for underprivileged children in the five boroughs.

It’s the sixth straight year that the 41st Assembly District Democrats Club shattered their own record, drawing from its 250 partners throughout Southern Brooklyn’s communities, winning accolades from the United States Marine Corps, which runs Toys for Tots nationwide.

“This operation clearly wouldn’t be what it is without you guys and your Club,” Marine Staff Sgt. Ivan Lebron told local organizer Bryan Lee during the club’s collection and tally party last night. The club’s effort will account for one out of every 24 donated to disadvantaged children throughout the five boroughs.

Now in it’s 11th year, the drive – organized by Lee, the club and Councilman Lew Fidler – has collected a total of 38,676 toys throughout its history.

Club members, donors, dignitaries and Marines converged on the club headquarters on 2952 Avenue R last night to count the contributions. Mr. Met and Brooklyn Cyclones’ Sandy the Seagull entertained kids, while Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, former City Comptroller Bill Thompson and a flurry of local pols mingled with attendees.

“Just imagine all those kids whose lives we’re going to impact this holiday season, who are going to know we care.” said Fidler.

“This year, there are going to be over 8,000 kids who’ll probably never know us, but will know there are people out there who care about them,” added Lee.

Photos by Barry Fischer.