The Salvation Army is issuing a desperate appeal for donations for its annual holiday toy drive.
Officials said Friday donations are not keeping up with demand for toys for certain age groups this year.
"We are in desperate need of toys for kids aged 9 to 12 already," said Salavation Army spokesperson Shannon Wise. "We estimate we need an additional 5,000 gifts just for this age group to get us through the first few days of distribution alone."
Distribution of the Salvation Army's Christmas Hampers begins on Monday.
Wise says they are short on things like board games for all ages, as well as hats and mitts. Donations of things like books, electronic games, and gift cards are also needed. She adds they are running short on toys for infants and toddlers as well as games for kids between the ages of 3 and 7, but the need is greatest in the nine-to-12 age range.
Again this year, Free 98.1 is partnering with the Salvation Army in the annual Rockin' the Stockin' Toy Drive.
Free 98-1 Marketing and Promotions Manager Becky Malacaria says the radio station's listeners have been incredibly generous in past years and she hopes that continues.
"The need for toys is greater than ever and so we hope that you will consider stopping by the White Oaks Mall Santa Display to leave a new, unwrapped toy for a child in our Rockin' The Stockin' bin," said Malacaria. "We are especially in need of toys for kids aged 9 through 12."
