Marlborough Girl Asks for Toys for Tots Instead of Birthday Gifts

The one thing seven year-old Bethany Gibson wanted for her December birthday was gifts for others, in the form of unwrapped toys to be donated to Toys for Tots.

"Bethany has a lot of compassion for people," said her father Mike.

As birthday plans were being made, Bethany asked that her guests bring unwrapped presents to be given to other children "so kids can have toys," she said.

Bethany had previously learned through the family's church that some children do not get toys during the holidays, said Bethany's mother Robin. However, Bethany remembered this and asked to do something about it all on her own.

"She's always had a very giving nature to her," said Robin who explained Bethany wanted other children to be happy and have lots of fun with the toys.

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The 18 guests at Bethany's birthday party brought over 20 presents that the Gibson's donated to Toys for Tots this week. While the children played during the party, it was the parents who took notice of the gesture, said Bethany's parents.

"They loved it," said Robin.

The children were even rewarded for their donations with gift certificates to Tombetta that the family bought.

The family hopes that Bethany can inspire others to give this year.