RICHLAND, Wash. — Employees at the Hanford Waste Treatment Plant, also known as the Vit Plant, donated toys, 1,000 bicycles and nearly $20,000 in cash to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves’ Toys for Tots campaign at the construction site this morning. Marines were present to accept the donation.
“The efforts of the Vit Plant employees are a huge part of the local Toys for Tots program and help us meet the rising demands each year,” Glen Carter, local Toys for Tots coordinator, said.
The cash donation included contributions from Bechtel National Inc. and URS. The 1,000 bicycles and helmets were donated by Vit Plant employees and Local 598 pipefitters as part of the pipefitters’ Bikes for Tikes campaign.
For the third year, several Vit Plant senior managers honored their pledges to attend the event dressed as various holiday characters, including Santa and his elves, because employees gave so generously.
“Vit Plant employees are continuing a tradition of incredible generosity and giving back to their community,” Steve Overton, manager of construction, said. “Their support for the Marine Corps’ Reserves Toys for Tots campaign and other community organizations makes me extremely proud to be a part of the Vit Plant team.”
Local businesses Griggs/Ace Hardware and Vintners Logistics also contributed to the Vit Plant’s efforts. Griggs/Ace Hardware ensured the bicycle orders were fulfilled in time for Christmas delivery. Vintners Logistics will provide delivery for the toys and bikes.
Vit Plant employees and parent companies Bechtel and URS are committed to supporting the local community and donated nearly $500,000 to area organizations and charities in 2012. Recipients included the United Way of Benton and Franklin Counties, Second Harvest, Junior Achievement, March of Dimes and others.