US First Lady joins Toys for Tots Christmas drive The US First Lady has done her bit for the annual "Toys for Tots" campaign that collects Christmas gifts for poorer families. Michelle Obama joined military volunteers and donors at a base near Washington to support this year's cause. Bikes, games, clothes and toys are gathered for distribution to needy children. Everyone can do something to show their gratitude and to give back. It's the same idea that drives Toys for Tots year after year - the belief that we all have something to contribute," Michelle Obama said. The First Lady brought gifts donated by White House staff for the collection, which is organised by US Marines reservists. The first Toys for Tots drive took place in 1947 in Los Angeles. The bulk of this year's donations will be given to children in the weatherbeaten US northeast. Stefan Grobe, euronews" correspondent who was at the launch in Washington, said: "Michelle Obama remains one of the most popular public figures in the United States. By supporting this initiative, she makes sure that countless children in areas, devastated by hurricane Sandy, will have a merry Christmas. More about: Christmas, Poverty, USA, Washington