Less fortunate tots in the Picayune area will still see toys under their Christmas tree thanks to the efforts of community members and an organization thatis gathering donations.

Toys for Tots is looking for needy families and for donations of new toys and money.

Jackie Rabion, local coordinator for Toys for Tots at the World Outreach Revival Center, said the last day for family applications will be Friday. Toys for Tots will be collecting donations until Dec. 19 for this year’s distribution. Rabion said donations will be taken after that date but will be distributed next year.

So far this year Rabion said she has already seen an increase in the number of applications from needy families, probably due to the large number of recent layoffs and the economic slump.

Toy donations can be taken to the Project Printz office in Picayune, Picayune Police Department, WRJW, all branches of First National Bank, Regions Bank, Wal-Mart, Dixie Glass, Walker’s Body Shop, Seal’s Grocery, Wells Fargo and all Dollar General locations, Rabion said. Toys for Tots is looking for new, unwrapped toys for children ages birth to 12 years.

Monetary donations can be sent to P.O. Box 1023, Picayune, MS 39466. Rabion asks that the donations be made out to Toys for Tots.

On Dec. 5, Toys for Tots held a radio-thon on WRJW and was able to raise $9,830.

Families interested in applying for assistance can call 601-798-3359 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. through Friday. Applicants are asked to bring birth certificates for each child and proof of Pearl River County residency.