The President and First Lady Team Up with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and Toys for Tots

Yesterday at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., First Lady Michelle Obama brought an extra set of hands to this year’s Toys for Tots: President Barack Obama.

The First Lady welcomed the crowd of local military families and introduced the President, who was making his first appearance at the annual holiday event.

In his remarks, the President explained the importance of Toys for Tots -- the annual toy drive led by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve -- and how it is much more than just helping to get presents under a tree:

… what Toys for Tots is about is generosity and giving back. All of us are so blessed. Look at these beautiful kids here and wonderful families. We are lucky. We’re lucky first and foremost to live in the United States of America, and we’re lucky to be able to look after our kids and there are parents out there who love their kids just as much but are going through a tough time. And for us to be able to make sure that that holiday spirit extends a little bit beyond just our family but to people all around the country, it is a wonderful contribution.

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama sort toys with U.S. Marines and children during the Toys for Tots event at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., Dec. 10, 2014. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

After their remarks, the First Lady and President teamed up with local Marines and military children to sort donated toys in preparation for the yearly gift distribution.

Learn more about Toys for Tots and find locations for donations here.

Rory Brosius is the Deputy Director of Joining Forces.