Thursday, October 1, 2026
This summer has delivered heatwaves and beach days, but the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program made sure it also delivered an early Christmas at Camp ANCHOR in Lido Beach. On July 30, Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti held a news conference at the camp, joined by Town Clerk Kate Murray, Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby, Toys for Tots representative John Imbriale and Santa Claus.
The Town of Hempstead has partnered with Toys for Tots for more than 35 years, serving the entirety of the town. Camp ANCHOR, which began its summer program in 1969, experienced its first Christmas in July event as campers and volunteer staff filled the gym, waiting in line for the opportunity to choose a present and meet Santa, who traded his iconic red suit for a pair of shorts and a Hawaiian shirt while enjoying his own summer vacation. Toys for Tots brought more than 700 gifts for campers.
Camp ANCHOR was halfway through its six-week summer program which organizes sports, arts and crafts, field trips, and other activities for children and adults with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities. Malibu Beach Club outfitted the camp’s gymnasium with a trimmed tree, Christmas decorations and winter-themed games to boost holiday spirit.
“As we just marked the 36th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26th,” Ferretti said, “we’re excited to be here today to spread joy to these young campers for this special Christmas in July program, in partnership with Toys for Tots.”
After the first round of gift-giving, Santa Claus had a moment to reflect on the offseason holiday celebration and the chance to share the spirit of giving when snow is the last thing on anyone’s mind. “Kids smiling is the greatest thing in the world,” Santa said. “It’s all about them. If you make them happy, everyone can be happy.”
