Boston Transit Workers Break Record With 2,746 Toys

MBTA workers donate record 2,746 toys in 25th annual Fill the Bus with Gifts drive

MBTA Employees Donate 2,746 Toys in 25th Drive

MBTA and MassDOT employees donated a record 2,746 toys through the Fill the Bus with Gifts program, transit officials announced Sunday. The donation marks the 25th anniversary of the employee-led initiative and represents the highest total in the program's history. The toys will benefit children served by the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home.

Program Showcases Transit Worker Community Spirit

The Fill the Bus with Gifts program started in 2000 as a way for transit employees to support local families during the holidays. Phillip Eng, MBTA General Manager and CEO, said the program showcases the generosity and community spirit of employees. 'For 25 years, MBTA and MassDOT staff have come together to make the holidays brighter for children and families in need, and this year's record-breaking donation is a testament to their dedication,' Eng told reporters. Officials didn't provide previous years' donation totals for comparison.

Record Donation Benefits Three Organizations

The 2,746 toys will be distributed to three Boston-area nonprofits serving children and families. Monica Tibbits-Nutt, MassDOT Secretary of Transportation, said she's proud of employees' commitment to giving back. 'This program exemplifies the values we hold dear—compassion, service, and making a positive difference in people's lives,' Tibbits-Nutt said. Officials didn't say how many employees participated in the toy drive or how many children will receive gifts through the three organizations.

Collection Wrapped Up in Early December

The annual toy drive concluded in early December, officials said, though specific collection dates weren't provided. The MBTA announced the results Dec. 8. Transit agencies across the country run similar employee-driven holiday programs, including New York's MTA Stuff-A-Bus and Washington's Metro toy drives. Officials said the donations will be distributed to recipient organizations before the holidays.

Toys Reach Families Through Local Nonprofits

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home will distribute the donated toys to families they serve. Officials said the three organizations work with children and families facing various challenges throughout the Boston area. Riders can find information about MBTA community programs on the agency's website. Moovit provides real-time service information for MBTA routes throughout the Boston area.