The Kansas City Chiefs have been engrained in many holiday traditions since they first called the Midwest home in 1963. One of the longest-standing is the annual Toys for Tots drive. For the past 44 seasons, the Chiefs have hosted this collection along with members from the Marine Corps. At the Sunday, December 13 tilt against the Buffalo Bills, Arrowhead Stadium will again play its part to help make children’s holiday wishes come true.

“It seems that the Kansas City Chiefs Football Club has always appreciated the fans and their families,” noted Colonel Jay L. Huston, Commander 24 Marine Regiment. “That sense of family is extended by the support they give the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program. It allows thousands of children throughout the Kansas City area and across our Nation to receive a toy this holiday season they otherwise may not. A special thanks to the Hunt family for their continued generous support!”

While the Red and Gold has hosted a Toys for Tots drive longer than any other NFL franchise, this year projects to be one of the most dire in decades. The Marines are again asking Chiefs fans to donate toys that are new and unwrapped for boys and girls up to age 13. Again this year, there is a particular need for toys that older children can utilize.

All the toys will be collected at the Arrowhead Stadium turnstiles by members of the Marines’ 24th Regiment. For those planning ahead, gates into the stadium open at 10:30 AM and kickoff for Sunday’s game is scheduled for 12:00, Noon.

Fans may choose to make a financial contribution in lieu of a toy if they prefer. Cash or checks (made payable to “Toys for Tots”) will also be collected at stadium entry points by the Marines.

Last season, the Marines collected 1,200 toys and almost $11,000 in donations thanks to the benevolence of Chiefs fans. This year, the team is hoping to surpass those figures.

-CHIEFS COMMUNITY CARING, JOIN OUR TEAM-