Boston Transit Workers Break Record With 2,746 Toys
MBTA workers donate record 2,746 toys in 25th year of Fill the Bus program
MBTA Employees Donate 2,746 Toys in 25th Annual Drive
MBTA and MassDOT employees donated 2,746 toys through the Fill the Bus with Gifts program, transit officials announced Sunday. The record-breaking total marks the most successful collection in the program's 25-year 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 Reaches Quarter-Century Milestone
The Fill the Bus with Gifts program launched in 2000 as a way for transit workers to support local families during the holidays. Phillip Eng, MBTA General Manager and CEO, said the record donation demonstrates employees' commitment to the community. "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 specific totals from previous years for comparison.
Record Donation Benefits Three Organizations
The 2,746 toys collected will be distributed among three local children's organizations. The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Boys and Girls Club of Boston, and Heading Home will receive the donations. Officials didn't specify how many employees participated in this year's drive or how the toys will be divided among the three organizations. The toy drive was completed in early December 2025, though specific collection period dates weren't available.
Transit Workers Continue Giving Tradition
The program showcases a broader trend among transit agencies nationwide to engage in community charitable efforts during the holidays. New York's MTA runs a similar Stuff-A-Bus program annually, as does Washington's WMATA. MBTA officials said the Fill the Bus with Gifts program reflects transit workers' connection to the communities they serve daily. The agency announced the milestone through an official press release.
Donations Support Local Children's Services
The three recipient organizations serve vulnerable children and families throughout the Boston area. Officials didn't provide estimates of how many children will benefit from the donated toys. Transit riders can track MBTA service updates and information through the Moovit app, which provides real-time transit information for the Boston area.
