The United States Marine Corps Reserve oversees the Toys for Tots program, which was started in 1947 by reservist Major Bill Hendricks. Its goal is to provide toys to kids from low-income households who can not afford presents for the holidays.

The goal of the campaign is to collect and give away brand-new, unopened toys for Christmas to children from low-income families. “The Foundation offers the leadership, money, and assistance needed for successful annual toy collection and distribution programs,” according to their website.

One of the most touching ads ever seen was debuted by the show in 1997. The moving commercial, which is seen by many people every Christmas, shows a young boy approaching a Marine with a piece of paper and asking whether he is Santa Claus.

At first, the Marine ignores the youngster even though he is on duty. Relentlessly, the young lad poses the same query and produces the document, revealing it to be his wish list for Christmas. With the hope that his dreams may come true, he gives the Marine the list.

To everyone’s amazement and joy, the Marine extends his hand and takes the boy’s list without even looking at him. The commercial aims to increase public awareness of Toys For Tots’ important work by highlighting the fact that some children do not have access to gifts and by enticing everyone to contribute to a child’s beneficial development.

H/T : worthyshared.com