Toys for Tots drive in full swing in Schuylkill County

Nov. 16—POTTSVILLE — The Toys for Tots campaign is in full swing in Schuylkill County.

Ed Quirin, chairman of the Schuylkill County Marine Corps League Coal Cracker Detachment, which runs the drive, said the collection boxes will be out until Dec. 8.

There are 150 boxes at various sites in the county. The boxes were placed at the beginning of November.

Educational toys, sports games and stuffed animals are among the items accepted. All donated toys must be new and unwrapped.

"We're trying to make a Christmas for kids that wouldn't have one otherwise," Quirin said.

He said most parents appreciate the generosity. Children up to age 12 are eligible for toys.

Most of the toys collected are given to the Salvation Army of Pottsville for distribution. However, some are also given to children who have experienced a tragedy, such as a house fire.

The Salvation Army of Pottsville, 400 Sanderson St., is accepting applications for toy distributions until Dec. 5.

However, if someone is late in finding out about the distribution, the organization will do its best to accommodate them.

Those with questions can call 570-622-5252. An application is also available at the Salvation Army Pottsville Corps' page on Facebook.

Distribution will occur from Dec. 12 to 16 at different locations.

Lt. Derek Barrett and his wife, Lt. Betty Ellen Barrett, are commanding officers of the local Salvation Army.

Last year, 386 children received toys through Toys for Tots. This year, around 500 children have been signed up.

Betty Ellen Barrett believes economic conditions have prompted more people to seek toys this year.

People can also apply for food from the Salvation Army, and at least 100 families have signed up, she said.

Those who qualify will receive meat, instant potatoes, vegetables, stuffing, canned fruit and other items to make the holidays a little brighter.

Contact the writer: amarchiano@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023