As the season of gift-giving is slowly making its way, Moody airmen are collecting toys for a program that provides gifts for disadvantaged children in the local community.

According to their Web site, the mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October through December.

The goal is to send a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.

“For some children, this could be the only toy(s) they receive for Christmas,” said Senior Master Sgt. James Roberts, 23rd Comptroller Squadron and Wing Staff superintendent. “The toys will brighten their holidays and give them the chance to experience the joy of Christmas.”

This year will be Moody’s first time hosting the toy drive for the program.

“Most people associate the program with the Marines, but I wanted the Air Force to help as well,” said Master Sgt. John Vena, 71st Rescue Squadron acting first sergeant. “We care about these children because most of them are going through tough times in their lives.”

Boxes will be located at several buildings around base such as the Base Exchange and Parker Greene Base Support Center.

“The program is a good cause and it doesn’t take much,” said Vena. “All airmen have to do is spend a few dollars on simple toys and drop them off in the boxes.”

After all the donations are collected, the toys will be taken to the Valdosta warehouse, where they will be stored and sorted by age and gender.

John Gates, regional Toys for Tots coordinator, determines how the toys will be distributed throughout the county.

He works with local social welfare agencies, church groups and schools to figure out who is eligible to receive toys.

“Our efforts so far have been a success,” said Vena. “We have many volunteers from every squadron collecting toys, and we already have boxes full of donations.”

In 2007, the Toys for Tots campaign collected 4.6 million toys worth more than $43.8 million.

“Hopefully, this year the base campaign with help surpass the total,” said Roberts. “Our goal is to have maximum participation by Moody personnel to provide enough toys for each deserving child in the local community.”

For more information, call Master Sgt. John Vena at 257-7105 or Senior Master Sgt. James Roberts at 257-3218.