SPOKANE, Wash. — Last year alone, Toys for Tots ensured 13,000 children in our community had something special for Christmas. Organizers say 2025’s numbers are shaping up to be similar. It’s a massive community effort that relies heavily on donations and volunteers. They range from kids in high school to a veteran who is nearing his 100th birthday. “It is so fulfilling, so heartwarming,” said Toys for Tots coordinator Shauna Turman. “Something I have learned is people want to help.” People like 99-yearold Larry Hogan. He will turn 100 come September. “There is not a single toy here they have not touched,” she said of Larry and his best friend Ed Knokey. Larry and Ed met through their volunteer work. Ed has been at it for 18 years, Larry 12. But the men were bonded long before their shared time at Toys for Tots. “I was 17 (when I enlisted in the Navy),” Larry said. “A baby.” He recalled needing his dad, who also served our country, to sign off it. Larry says he was proud to do it. “I went in (the military) in 1943,” Larry said. Ed served in the Air Force. Both men’s military backgrounds, discipline, and deep care for others have proven timeless. “They are exponential,” Shauna said. “They are the backbone of our organization. The duo is spending their golden years finding a new way to serve. “It leaves you with a good feeling at the end of the day,” Ed said. But the time has come to pass the torch. “I’ve had a lot of tears,” Shauna said. We understand but yeah…we’re going to miss them. A lot.” This year will be their last with Toys for Tots. They are once again preparing to retire, this time from volunteering. “I have 15 great grandkids with projects to keep me busy,” Larry said with a chuckle. But he and Ed both vow to still check back in on the organization they love so much. They hope anyone touched by their story goes out and finds a way to give back. To learn more about Toys for Tots: https://www.toysfortots.org/support-us/
