HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County District Attorney’s Office will launch its 25th annual Toys for Tots Drive on Monday, Dec. 1, continuing a tradition that began with a single toy box in the courthouse and has grown into a countywide effort supporting local children during the holiday season. The drive runs through noon on Dec. 12.
The program began when District Attorney Tom Stanton attended an AMBUCS meeting in his first year with the office. After hearing a presentation on Toys for Tots, he brought one collection box back to the courthouse. It filled quickly, and each year the effort expanded. The office later added multiple collection sites and even held departmental competitions to boost donations during years when foot traffic at the courthouse slowed.
“Throughout the 25 years that we’ve been doing this, we’ve had several challenges, but the community has always stepped up,” said Deputy District Attorney Andrew Davidson. “Last year we collected 819 toys, plus cash donations and winter accessories for children.”
This year’s drive is already off to a fast start. A UTV ride through South Hutchinson held this past weekend brought in 396 toys. The event was organized by City of South Hutchinson Superintendent Matt Mock and his wife, Deana, who serves as office manager at the district attorney’s office.
“Since this is our 25th year, we’d like to collect 25 boxes of toys,” Mock said. “We collected 15 boxes during the UTV ride, so we are well on our way.”
The drive accepts new, unwrapped toys of all types, as well as cash donations that volunteers use to purchase additional items. Winter hats, gloves and scarves are also welcomed. Toys can be dropped off at multiple locations across the county, including the courthouse, Public Works, the Health Department, the Annex, the City of South Hutchinson and most Reno County departments.
Any toys collected will remain in Reno County. After the drive ends on Dec. 12, volunteers will sort the items and deliver them to local Toys for Tots coordinator Sandy Reger, who distributes them based on applications submitted by families.
“She looks at what children are needing or hoping for and makes sure they get something special for Christmas,” Mock said.
Davidson said the drive provides a bright spot for staff members who often work with people at difficult points in their lives.
“We deal with crime victims who have lost everything and people struggling with substance abuse,” he said. “When we get to serve our community this way, it brings some light into our office.”
The office is also handing out commemorative challenge coins this year. Anyone who donates a toy can receive a coin while supplies last, along with the traditional decorated sugar cookies made by staff.
Mock said the office sees enthusiasm from employees and the community every December.
“We get everything from Hot Wheels to bicycles to stuffed animals,” she said. “We need toys for all ages, from babies to teenagers, and the community always comes through.”
The District Attorney’s Office is already planning ahead. South Hutchinson has scheduled next year’s UTV ride for Nov. 21, 2026.
Although the official drive runs Dec. 1 through Dec. 12, Mock said donations are welcome year-round.
“If people collect toys throughout the year and want to drop them off, we’ll take them anytime,” she said.
For more information, residents can contact the Reno County District Attorney’s Office or visit any participating drop-off location.