MILTON — On May 2, the Nassau chapter of Toys for Tots held a celebration for its 2021 supporters.

The event was attended by over 75 people, representing Toys for Tots warehouse workers, collection drivers, local housing developments, business and media communities, and those making personal contributions.

Held outdoors at Dogfish Head Brewery, Milton, the master of ceremonies and assistant coordinator of last year’s effort, Grady Putnam, presented the awards.

He began by acknowledging the great support the chapter receives from local veterans, in particular Marine Corps League Detachment 704, the Diamond Dogs of Milford and American Legion Post 28. Following that, the vital role of drivers and warehouse staff in the collection and distribution of toys was recognized.

Next, certificates of appreciation were presented to the following: the community of Lewes Crossing for contributing over 125 handmade toys; Homestead Campground for taking the lead in supporting the chapter’s first “Christmas in July” effort in 2021; the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians for its bake sale in conjunction with the 2021 kickoff event; and Ruth Pryor for her assistance coordinating the distribution of toys via local social service organizations.

Lastly, Mr. Putnam presented Nassau’s Red Train Awards, handcrafted replicas of the Toys for Tots logo. The awards were the creation of 2019-20 campaign coordinator Bob Davis, who wished to recognize extraordinary contributions to the campaigns from year to year.

The 2021 recipients were Shirley Feyers, volunteer coordinator; Jeff Horn, media coordinator; Bill Porreca, warehouse supervisor; Toni Putnam, administrative coordinator; and Gary Muratta, kickoff event lead coordinator.

Also recognized was Carson Figueroa, the kickoff’s guest of honor, who organized his 9th birthday party to collect gifts for Toys for Tots.

Business recipients were the Beebe Healthcare team, in memory of Jerry Whitcomb, and Dogfish Head Brewery, both of whom generously donated toys and bikes; Sports at the Beach and its owner, Pete Townsend, for donating warehouse space, where toys were also collected; and John Riebel of Forever Media for organizing numerous live radio events in support of Christmas in July and the 2021 campaign.