Business : TOYS FOR TOTS CAMPAIGN RAISES MORE THAN $275,000

Fareway presented a check for $275,173.70 Monday afternoon to the U.S.

Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program in support their 2024 Toys for Tots campaign, which

provides toys to children during the holiday season. Monetary and toy donations were accepted

at all Fareway store locations from Friday, November 24th through Tuesday, December 24th.

"Each year our customers continue to go above and beyond to make the annual Toys for Tots

campaign a success," said Fareway Senior Vice President of Marketing & Advertising Jeff Stearns.

"We are so appreciative of their generosity and the partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps, over

thirty years of making seasons bright for thousands of children."

Toys for Tots Tuesday took place on December 17th, the effort drew donors bearing nearly 16,811

toys to drop-offs at American Equity in West Des Moines, Fareway on Oralabor Road in Ankeny

and IBEW 347 in Ankeny. A live telethon hosted by KCCI-TV raised $23,005. Total toy donations

more than tripled the amount collected in 2023.

"Our generous viewers continue to make us proud as we lead this annual tradition," said KCCI

President and General Manager Brian Sather. "This year, we are thrilled to announce that we

collected over 16,000 toys for kids in need. We are also grateful to Fareway, American Equity,

IBEW 347, Landus, and their employees who pour their heart and soul into helping ensure no

child in Iowa goes without a toy during the holidays. Together, our community shows what can be

achieved when we unite for a common cause."

In 2024, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program achieved a remarkable milestone

by distributing over 30 million toys, books, and other gifts to nearly 13 million children in need

throughout the United States.

"On behalf of Toys for Tots, I extend our deepest gratitude to Fareway for their incredible support

in 2024," Lt. Gen Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots

Foundation said. "Their generous donation of $271,273.70 from their Toys for Tots Round-up

campaign, along with the number of toys collected at all Fareway store locations, brought joy and

hope to countless children in need this past holiday season. Fareway's commitment to our

mission exemplifies the true spirit of giving and community. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of so many children.