Oklahoma 4-H Continues Annual Toy Drive When Founder Leaves to Serve in the U.S. Army

Reed Marcum started hosting a toy drive in 2015. Since then, he has distributed thousands of toys across his home state of Oklahoma and in Texas and Arkansas. Now serving in the Army, Reed’s family and local 4-H chapter are running the event.

PITTSBURG COUNTY, Okla. (RFD-TV) — For the past few years, we have had the pleasure of visiting with an Oklahoma 4-H’er who is making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate each Christmas.

Reed Marcum started hosting his annual holiday toy drive in 2015, and since then, he has distributed thousands of toys across his home state of Oklahoma, as well as Texas and Arkansas, with the help of hundreds of volunteers and generous donations.

Now Reed has graduated from school. He completed basic training with the U.S. Army and is deployed as a 19-K Amor Crew. This year, Reed’s family and his local Pittsburg County 4-H chapter are taking the reins and running the toy giveaway.

Educator Greg Owen with Pittsburg Co. 4-H and Reed’s mother, Angie Marcum, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report with an update on this year’s toy drive. In an interview with RFD-TV News, Owen shared some background on the toy giveaway, how 4-H has stepped up to make the event happen, and detailed what is required for the fundraiser to come together.

Marcum shared more about her son’s service and how the toy drive has taken a different shape in his absence. She also shared the joy and support from families who receive gifts from her son’s mission.

Donations to the Toy Giveaway can be made to the Sgt Miles Tarron Foundation and through Reed’s GoFundMe.

Related Stories
BNSF plans to increase rates by $150 to $250 per car on many Northern Plains routes, depending on origin and destination. CPKC will raise most U.S. wheat tariff rates by $225 per car.
USDA recommends producers contact their local Farm Service Agency office as soon as practical after a qualifying disaster to discuss available programs and reporting requirements.
Carson McQueen’s SAE project brings gardening activities to residents at a local nursing home.
Rebecca Newburn said her SAE has strengthened her leadership and business management skills.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USDA reported a large export sale that included shipments to China and unknown destinations, which traders often interpret as additional Chinese purchases.
The announcement comes as the United States, Canada, and Mexico continue negotiations over the future of the USMCA trade agreement.
Asian longhorn ticks are spreading across parts of the Midwest, raising livestock concerns as researchers explore new pest control technology.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition joins us to discuss improvements to inland waterways and port infrastructure, transportation costs, and the importance of maintaining critical shipping channels for agriculture.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss Canada’s agricultural policy discussions, industry reaction to the joint statement, and the path forward toward the next agricultural policy framework.
EPA Region 6 Administrator Scott Mason explains how proposed diesel rule changes could impact truckers, farmers, and the broader economy.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.