The proper amount of holiday cheer is a busload.

That’s why Toys for Tots is bringing back their popular “Stuff the Bus” event on Saturday, Dec. 3.

“Stuff the Bus” is the hallmark of Toys for Tots campaign in East Jefferson County, inviting the community to bring as many toys for children, who otherwise might not have anything under the tree, as can fit in Jefferson County Transit buses.

This year, there will be two convenient “Stuff the Bus” locations. There will be a bus ready to be filled in the parking lot of the Port Townsend Safeway, and one in the parking lot of the 1st Security Bank in Port Hadlock, across from the QFC.

Each location will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Kiwanis Choo Choo will be onsite at the Port Townsend location and will be available for rides and to escort Santa downtown for the tree lighting ceremony.

This year celebrates the 75th anniversary of Toys for Tots. It was created in 1947 by retired Marine Reservist Major Bill Hendricks. His civilian job was working at Warner Bros Studios and he became good friends with Walt Disney. It was Walt Disney who designed the first Toys for Tots poster with the little red train which is now the official logo. The first year they collected 5,000 toys in Los Angeles.

In 2008, Toys for Tots added a literacy component and 44 million books have been given to children in need since.

Port Townsend Kiwanis has already committed to providing $1,000 worth of books to Port Townsend school libraries as well as $1,000 worth of books to Chimacum school libraries.

Last year, Port Townsend collected 2,751 toys and distributed them to 715 children. Nationally, Toys for Tots delivered more than 18 million toys to 7 million fortunate children.

Organizers would like to thank all of their community supporters who have collection boxes in stores, as well as Safeway and First Security Bank for providing space for “Stuff The Bus.”

Additionally, this event would not be possible without the continuing support of Jefferson Transit. Management and employees are a critical part of its success. They provide the busses, and volunteers to help on the day of the event.

Those who chose to donate are also encouraged to help support the local economy by shopping for toys locally.