Hey Tamer, I gave a listen to that and some of the other podcasts. It was awesome to put some voices to you guys and in Tamer's (your) case a face too! Thanks for doing an announcement about the toy drive! Yet another media to get the word out! Excellent.
I want to say that if I really don't want to have to make any size/weight limits, nor do I want any of us (and anyone else who donates) going into debt, or choosing a shipment over something more important, with the prices of these donations and the costs of getting them to Eli. That being said, if you plan on donating something that weighs more than say 10 carded figures (so about 2 pounds) please help out with shipping costs for forwarding to Eli. I got word from a supporter who wants to donate an AT-AT and while it's one of the greatest vehicles Hasbro has made to date, it also weighs about 14lbs (including speeder bike, stickers, AT-AT driver, and fully assembled) loose. So in that case I would ask that you please include a contribution towards the forwarding shipping amount. I personally open all shipments (to check all items for any damage from shipping, appropriateness for a six year old, and to make sure that there aren't any get well cards or messages) I also repack every item, as many as will fit into the least amount of boxes, that will still arrive safe. My living room has a large pile of boxes and packing materials and Star Wars goodies awaiting shipment to Eli. This is a sacrifice I gladly make, but each week it's about $30 or so.
So that being said, please don't hesitate to donate big vehicles or tons of metal toys, or lots of heavy plastic and tins, etc. But keep in mind what you're sending and how much it might cost. Also plan to factor your shipping cost into the cost of the donation.
Thanks guys!
