Members of the Marine Corps League Detachment 1438 expect a large increase in need for their annual Toys for Tots program this year.
Last year, the program collected over 2,800 toys and around $15,000 in cash to purchase toys.
Overall, they distributed 3,853 toys to 920 children.
This year, the detachment anticipates receiving closer to 1,200 requests for toys this year.
“If you combine all of the charities in Fannin County that distribute toys to children around Christmas, we are larger than all the rest combined, and we’re only starting our fifth year,” Marine Corps League Commandant Jim Brumbelow said.
The organization also provides duffle bags with hairdryers, makeup and other like items for young girls at Open Arms.
“When those girls come in there, they literally have everything they have in a paper bag,” Brumbelow said. “So, it least now they have a duffle bag that they can put their clothes in and personal items to call their own.”
Those wishing to make requests for toys from the program can do so now. Requests may be made by going online to the Toys for Tots website at www.toysfortots.com and selecting Fannin County, Georgia, or by filling out request forms at Fannin County Family Connection, which is located at 501 Fannin Industrial Park in Blue Ridge.
“We know that our fundraising efforts have been curtailed, just like everybody’s has,” Brumbelow said.“We’re scrambling because we have more requests and less resources. Plus, our expenses are going up.”
There will be over 50 collection boxes spread throughout the county at local businesses, restaurants, car dealerships and financial institutions.