The 12th annual Toys for Tots Campaign in Moore County, coordinated by the United States Marine Corps League, Sandhills Area Detachment No. 1001, kicks off Wednesday, Nov. 10, the 235th birthday of the USMC.

On that evening local Marines, armed with toys for local children, will gather at the Table on the Green to celebrate this special occasion.

"As in past years, please watch for box locations all over Moore County," says a spokesman. "It is important to remember that all toys must be new and unwrapped. This enables us to direct the appropriate toy to the age and sex (and sometimes wishes) of the child."

The campaign often runs short on toys for little ones, birth to 3 years of age, as well as those children in their early teens.

Puzzles, educational toys and ethnic dolls are all appreciated.

"We ask that you keep in mind toys that require batteries are costly for needy children," adds the spokesman.

Checks (written to the Toys for Tots Foundation) and cash donations are also helpful in giving the Marines the opportunity to purchase toys that may not be available through box donations. They can be mailed to Thomas McKenna, 121 Emerald Court, Aberdeen, NC 28315.

The League works with 30-plus organizations to help distribute toys. These include, but are not limited to, the Empty Stocking Fund, area churches and Social Services. It does not work directly with individual families.

Coordinator Thomas McKenna can be reached at (910) 295 1871 or by e-mail thomasmcke@aol.com.

Last year, more than 8,000 toys were distributed to needy children in Moore County.

"During these difficult economic times, we anticipate more requests for assistance than ever," says the spokesman. "Know that you can make a difference in many young lives that would, otherwise, not have gifts at Christmas."