Efforts are already under way in Liberty County to ensure every child living in the area has a joyful holiday season.
On Tuesday, United Way of Liberty County board members held their first meeting to discuss this year’s Toys for Tots campaign.
Board members say they want to help as many children enjoy Christmas as possible.
“The one thing that I have heard them say over and over is that you don’t mess with kids and Christmas. You do what you can to make Christmas happen for children,” said Leah Poole, the organization’s executive director. “They really believe that.”
In January, United Way of Liberty County became the official coordinator for the area’s toy collection drive.
Poole said the organization is working on the project along with Fort Stewart, the county’s Department of Family and Child Services and Liberty Chrysler. There is still plenty to be done.
“We figure this year there will be an even bigger demand for toys because of the economy,” Poole said. “Any help we can get would be appreciated. If you don’t want to participate in the organizational part of the drive, we can always use people to help distribute toys.”
Starting Monday, United Way will begin accepting applications for those who would like to receive toys.
The last day to turn in applications will be Dec. 7 and toys will be distributed Dec. 19.
 “We, 100 percent, believe that every child deserves to have a Christmas,” Katherine McCartney, UWLC vice chairwoman said.

“And this was a way for us to really be involved in our community.”
Last year, Poole said, Toys for Tots in Liberty County gave away an estimated 2,000 toys to needy children in the area.
Anyone who wants to help can call Poole at 368-4282.
Meetings for the county’s Toys for Tots campaign are at 11:30 a.m. every Tuesday at Poole’s Deli.
Toy collection boxes will be set up in various locations around the county. Only new and unwrapped toys should be donated at the sites.