Toys for Tots Finds Holiday Home Thanks to Hike Kidz and Community Support

In an inspiring show of teamwork and community generosity, the Hike Kidz Foundation came to the rescue of this year’s Toys for Tots drive in Front Royal, helping secure a home for the operation—and raising $4,600 in just a matter of hours to cover the rent and utilities for the season.

The announcement came during a special gathering at Royal Plaza Shopping Center, the new home for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots regional campaign, which serves six counties: Warren, Frederick, Shenandoah, Page, Clarke, and Winchester City.

Amber Veitenthal, President of Hike Kidz Foundation, opened the event by reflecting on the power of partnerships. “In December, when the stockings were gone at Hike Kidz, Toys for Tots didn’t hesitate. Kim Renz and Erin Henry showed up with no hesitation to refill those stockings. This year, they needed space, and we knew it was time to return the favor.”

That space was secured in about an hour, thanks to the help from All Seasons Services, the property management company for Royal Plaza. Then came the wave of support. Local businesses and donors stepped up immediately:

• Amanda Keeler Slate covered October’s utilities,
• KFC took care of November’s rent,
• Jean’s Jewelers sponsored December’s rent,
• Andrew’s Grading and Excavation Services paid for January,
• The Aikens Group, along with volunteers Jerry and Sue Clark from Middletown and an anonymous donor, helped cover utilities.

The result? A $4,600 check was presented to Toys for Tots on-site. Erin Henry, the longtime local coordinator, said, “We just want to thank all our community sponsors for making this happen.”

Henry also noted that this is a family mission: she’s part of a legacy of five generations of Henry family members supporting the Marine Corps Toys for Tots. She was joined by her mother, Connie Henry, and sister, Kim Renz, both longtime volunteers.

“This year, we’re covering thousands of kids across six counties,” Erin said. “Last year, we served nearly 4,000 children. We’re so grateful for this community. We’re also calling for help — we need volunteers to sort and pack toys, and we desperately need toys, especially for kids ages 9 to 12 and 13 to 17.”

While it’s common for people to donate toys for younger children, Henry reminded the community, “We go all the way up to 17 years old. Let kids be kids as long as possible.”

Drop boxes for toys labeled “Marine Corps Toys for Tots” will be appearing across the region within the week. Individuals, businesses, or organizations who want to host a donation box, volunteer, or donate toys can find more information and contact details on the local Toys for Tots website.

The event wasn’t just about a check—it was about community values. Business owner Jean Plugger of Jean’s Jewelers said it best: “When our children need help, we all need to step up.” Fellow donor Amanda Slate added, “We’re taught that we have to fill the gap. It’s the ones we don’t see that often that need the most.”

The support from Hike Kidz Foundation is just the beginning of their holiday outreach. Veitenthal hinted at more community involvement this season, including a presence at the upcoming Festival of Leaves, where families can look out for the Pirate Ship, courtesy of the Warren County Veterinary Clinic.

“Power and partnership,” Veitenthal said, “That’s what Hike Kidz is about. This isn’t just about us helping Toys for Tots—it’s about helping each other, building relationships, and making sure no child is left behind.”

For more information or to get involved, visit the local Toys for Tots website or follow Hike Kidz Foundation on social media.