Boy donates birthday presents to Toys for Tots

OWASSO, Okla. (CNN) -- You only turn eight once and Chase Branscum of Owasso celebrated his birthday in big way.

The birthday boy received more than 500 gifts, but he won’t be taking any of them home with him.

“I already have toys and other kids don’t,” said Chase.

Chase decided to forgo a traditional party and birthday gifts to help other local boys and girls through a Toys for Tots toy drive.

“They don’t have toys and when they have anything for Christmas they can’t play and they can’t have fun,” Chase said.

More than 100 guests showed up for his party which was held on Sunday, Dec. 9 at the Rejoice Church North Campus Gymnasium in Owasso.

“He has a wonderful heart,” Chase’s mom, Tiffany Rowe, said.

Chase's mother says she was so proud of her son and humbled by his decision to make his birthday party about the community instead of himself.

“You want to raise your child to be generous and to think of someone other than themselves,” said Rowe, “Him doing this was a gift to me.”

The toys will go to the Owasso chapter of Toys for Tots, and the coordinator of that effort says the need is high this holiday season.

“(We’ll) probably give gifts to around 2,000 children,” Michelle Hayes said.

Local business owner, Danny Stockton, of Red Dot Laser Tag, decided to get involved and help with the benefit party after hearing about Chase’s generous plan. Children in attendance got to play laser tag, eat snacks and play games.

Chase’s friends said the party was different in a good kind of way.

“I’m happy that other kids get things because some of them have never had Christmas,” said Chases’ friend, Kennedy.

Volunteers with Toys for Tots say that they are still accepting gifts for children in need.

For more info on where to donate, go to owassotoysfortots.com.