For the 18th consecutive year, the South Colonie Central School District is partnering with the U.S. Marines to host the Stuff the Bus toy drive, collecting toys for the Marine Toys for Tots program. The drive will kick off with an event on Monday, December 2, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. at Shaker Road Elementary, where district representatives, students, and community members will gather to launch this beloved annual initiative.

Following the kickoff, collection events will be held at several South Colonie schools, allowing students and families to participate in bringing holiday cheer to local children in need. The Stuff the Bus schedule is as follows:

• Monday, Dec. 2 – Shaker Road Media Kickoff, 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.
• Tuesday, Dec. 3 – Saddlewood, 9:30 to 10 a.m.
• Wednesday, Dec. 4 – Lisha Kill, 9:30 to 10 a.m.
• Thursday, Dec. 5 – Roessleville, 9:30 to 10 a.m.
• Friday, Dec. 6 – Forest Park, 9:30 to 10 a.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 7 – High School (Lights in the Park), 6 to 9 p.m.
• Monday, Dec. 9 – Veeder, 9:30 to 10 a.m.
• Tuesday, Dec. 10 – Sand Creek, 9:30 to 10 a.m.

In addition to school-based collections, the Village of Colonie will also be hosting a toy drive in collaboration with the district to expand the reach and impact of this year’s campaign.

“Our partnership with the U.S. Marines for Stuff the Bus with Toys for Tots is a meaningful way for our students, staff, and families to make a difference for local children in need,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “Community is a fundamental pillar of our district, and through this initiative, we can come together to support one another and spread kindness during the holiday season.”

South Colonie encourages the local community to participate by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to any of the scheduled collection events. Toys will also be accepted at the South Colonie District Office, located at 102 Loralee Drive, through Monday, December 9.

“Let’s make this year’s Stuff the Bus campaign another memorable one for children in our community,” Perry added.