Gonzalez Dental Care joins U.S. Marines to fight against poverty and illiteracy

Dec 5 2013

Dr. Liliana C. Gonzalez has joined the U.S. Marines in a campaign to attack poverty and illiteracy in our society through the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots and the Toys for Tots Literacry Program. While attending a special event and banquet in Florida honoring the U.S. Military for Toys for Tots, she learned that over 16 million children in the United States live below the poverty level. Dr. Liliana C. Gonzalez, serving the community for over 8 years did not realize the extent that poverty has actually impacted children here in our home. "I was aware of poverty and malnutrition in other parts of the world but did not realize the extent of it here in the United States. I have participated in local health fairs, Halloween events, and Christmas giving tress but feel these are just not enough."

While at the event it was learned that in 1947, after WWII, Toys for Tots began in Los Angeles when Major Bill Hendricks and a small group of Marine Reservist collected and distributed over 5,000 Toys to needy children. Then in 2008, in order to do something about illiteracy, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program was launched with the mission to offer our nation's most economically disadvantaged children the ability to compete academically and succeed in life.

Big named companies such as the UPS store, FAO Schwartz, Hasbro, Toys R Us, and the Walt Disney Company have joined the fight in supporting the Toys for Tots Literacy campaign. Dr. Gonzalez said, "This Toys for Tots Campaign is a great way for all the staff and local community to join forces and really make an impact on needy children. It really helps children acquire basic tools that will help them reach any goals they may set for themselves. I personally come in contact every day in my office with young people who have poor reading and writing skills. I feel they are ill prepared to get good jobs and succeed in life".

During the event, Captain Joseph Draeger of the U.S. Marines said, "Through the gift of a book we can provide the tools needed to help break the cycle, one child at a time. Dr. Gonzalez stated, "I think we can all agree a new shiny toy brings a sparkle to a young child's eye. What better way to brighten the season and create awareness on poverty here at home and help others."

SOURCE Gonzalez Dental Care