Gores Family Delivers 10,000 Holiday Gifts to Michigan Families Through Toys for Tots Partnership

Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores and his wife Holly gave more than 10,000 toys, bicycles, scooters, and games to Michigan families. The first giveaway happened Wednesday at Shed 5 in Eastern Market. Over 8,600 items went to 750 families who'd been picked ahead of time.

Marines handed out the gifts. Volunteers from the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program helped too. Kids ages 4 to 7 got bicycles with training wheels and helmets, while children 3 and younger received Talking Elmos and VTech Smart Shots Sports Centers.

"This is one of my favorite times of the year as we're able to provide so much joy and holiday cheer to hundreds of children and families," Gores said in a statement, as reported by Click On Detroit. "Every child deserves to smile and feel the excitement that comes with opening a gift during the holidays."

Children under 3 years old received balance bikes with helmets. Kids ages 8-10 were given scooters and Lego sets. The 11-13 group got wireless headphones.

The Gores family started this tradition in 2006 as a Secret Santa partnership. Working with Toys for Tots began in 2009. In 2013, the couple agreed to be identified so others might give too.

Since the partnership started, they've delivered 147,500 toys to more than 75,000 children. This marks the 19th year.

"Just seeing the families, seeing kids, and getting emails in response saying, 'Thank you so much for everything you've done,' and it just gives me fulfilment on why I continue to do this year in and year out," said Marine Staff Sgt. Larry Bogus, according to CBS Detroit.

Taquana Harper attended Wednesday with her family. "Very amazing, and I'm happy to have so many different options for the kids," Harper said to CBS Detroit.

The second event will be held in Flint on Dec. 17, coordinated by Voices for Children. Gores also gave $25,000 to The Salvation Army Downriver Corps.

Meijer supported the event. Volunteers from the U.S. Marine Corps pitched in. Holly Gores' brother Duncan Murdock attended the giveaway.