Kicking off TODAY’s Holiday Toy Drive

>>> the holidays upon us it is that time of the year again, our 18th annual "today" show toy drive and it starts next monday, so be sure to come on down to the plaza with a gift for a child up to the age of 18, and we're going to have surprise celebritieies helping us, donning the usual santa hat , collecting gifts again. every year these toys put a smile on the faces of children around the country, for example the kids at goose hollow family shelter in portland, washington. we really need the help more than ever so we hope people bring their gifts by.

>> so let's meet one of our most generous partners, amy rob yinson from the direct selling association . your helpers?

>> a.j.

>> and?

>> caitlin .

>> and caitlin , all right.

>> great.

>> you guys are helping us once again.

>> yes, this is our eighth year with the toy drive, and we're so happy to be able to donate about $16.5 million in products. we have so many companies who have helped us out, cutco, shackly, barefoot books . 16 million direct sellers in the u.s., happy to be able to help the people around the country that these donation also go to so thank you for the opportunity.

>> we know you're one of the long time supporters of this toy drive. i read you said some of your merchants call you saying when does it start, they're anxious to help out.

>> this has become a fun event for them every year and we're so happy to participate.

>> tell us about direct sellers, you see the need firsthand.

>> direct selling is great because it helps people to better their lives as well as the lives of others and that shows through. in turn they want to help as well so the companies love donating, the individual direct sellers love to participate in community events around the world. so it's really been a great lot of fun.

>> great. great way to kick it off, thank you.

>> thank you.

>> a lot of nice products you're donating. thanks, a.j. and caitlin , thank you.