Senator Nell Soto (D – Pomona) is a proud co-sponsor of a bipartisan effort to generate thousands of toys, CDs and DVDs for the California military members currently deployed overseas and their families.

While the official kick-off for the second annual “Operation Christmas For Our Troops II” took place today at the State Capitol, collection of the toys, DVDs and CDs actually began on November 28. The campaign will continue through December 21.

“Not all Miracles Happen on 34th Street,” said Brad White, a member of the National Guard Association of California, and the military point person for the “Christmas For Our Troops II” campaign. “Last year we were able to generate more than 10,000 toys, CDs and DVDs for our troops and their family members. With more members of the Legislature participating this year, we hope to increase the number of items we collect.”

This year seven offices have agreed to participate in the “Operation Christmas For Our Troops II” program. In addition to Senator Soto, they include Assembly Majority Leader Dario Frommer (D – Los Angeles), Assemblyman Chuck DeVore (R – Irvine), Assemblyman Alberto Torrico (D – Newark), Assemblyman Joe Nation (D – San Rafael) and Senator Bob Dutton (R – Rancho Cucamonga).

Additional sponsors include the California Democratic Party, the California Republican Party, and the Assembly Republican Caucus.

“While there are some issues that divide us, this is one area where we stand united,” Soto said. “Once again we set aside our differences to assist those troops and their loved ones who are making incredible sacrifices on behalf of all Americans.”

Each of the participating Legislators have agreed to make boxes available in their Capitol and district offices for members of the public to drop off their toys, DVDs and CDs. Once collected the gifts will be distributed to California military members stationed overseas and to the children of family members who are currently serving their country.

“Many of our troops are members of the California National Guard and Reserves and have given up their civilian job to serve their country,” Brad White said. “As a result, most of these brave men and women have taken a significant pay cut to serve. This drive will not only help these lift the spirit of these military members who are putting their lives on the line each and every day, but will make sure their family members will have a Merry Christmas as well.”