LUTCHER — The St. James Parish U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots effort has begun and organizers are soliciting support in promoting the work in the community.

“Thank you for all the support for the past four years to make sure every less fortunate child receives a new gift every Christmas,” said Melissa Chriss, St. James Parish 2018 Toys for Tots coordinator.

“Because of your support we are able to service 400 children within our local parish.

“We are preparing for our fifth year in servicing our less fortunate children, and we will need your continued support.”

The Toys for Tots program drive benefits underprivileged children who reside in greater St. James Parish. All children in attendance on Distribution Day Dec. 15 receive a gift bag along with a new toy.

All donations are tax deductible, and all funds and toys donated stay in the area, providing appropriate gifts to children, who, without Toys for Tots, would be facing a bleak Christmas morning.

The community’s help is needed as organizers attempt to reach “ 400 toys for 400 children.”

For more information, 504-259-2029 or email stjamesla.toysfortots.mchriss@gmail.com.

A check can be made payable to “Toys for Tots” and mailed to St. James, Toys for Tots, P.O. Box 106, Vacherie, La. 70090.

Monetary donations may be made online at ToysForTots.org. Select Donate in the bar across the top; in the Donate box, select Donate Now. Go down to the Gift Information heading, and in the box below Direct my gift to the Local Marine Toys for Tots Campaign located in: Select La – St. James.

Organizers can provide toy collection boxes for your location. They will be picked up in mid-December and can be requested by calling 504-259-2029 and leaving a voice mail. Collection jars can be provided at your location to collect cash donations from customers.

In-kind donations of food for volunteers or events, office supplies, secure storage space, etc. are welcome and a tax letter from the Foundation acknowledging the donation can be sent.

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a non-profit organization and a 1099 form can be provided.

Organizers stress the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is among the few charities that pay no salaries or manpower costs from donations.

Nationally, all local personnel are volunteers, and the small Foundation staff is paid through the proceeds from a substantial endowment fund.