By Southern Torch Staff

PICTURED: Several volunteers who were honored with a plaque for their work on the 2019 Toys-for-Tots campaign. (Photo by LaRue Hardinger)

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — The Northeast Alabama Marine Corps League has begun accepting applications for their 2020 Toys-for-Tots program. Applications may be picked up at the DeKalb County Department of Human Resources (DHR) in Fort Payne. 

According to a statement released by Toys-for-Tots Coordinator for DeKalb County LaRue Hardinger, more children are expected to be in need this Christmas due to complications caused by the coronavirus pandemic. 

She reiterated the need for toy donations, money, or campaign support. All gifts or contributions to this program help children living in DeKalb County, and workers are "100% volunteer."

Donations and fundraiser proposals are accepted year-round at fortpayne-al.toysfortots.org. Checks may be mailed to P.O. Box 681516, Fort Payne, AL 35968. 

Last year, the program provided almost 8,000 toys to 1,160 DeKalb County children in need thanks to community involvement and support. 

Earlier this year, members of the Northeast Alabama Marine Corps League, Detachment 1404 received a plaque at their meeting for their work during the 2019 campaign.