Preparations are under way to once again bring extra holidaycheer to needy children in the Brookhaven area.

The 14th annual Brookhaven Toys for Tots will be takingapplications from needy families from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov.18, at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer Parish Hall, located atthe intersection of Monticello and Church Streets.

Anyone with needy children can fill out an application, duringthose hours only, for items to be distributed during the holidayseason, said Brookhaven Toys for Tots Chairman Moses Bell.

“We never, ever turn down anybody who has a child in need,” headded.

Needy families, whose applications are approved by a committee,can receive valuable items, from clothing to toys, in time forChristmas.

“We’re going to make sure that everybody gets something forChristmas,” said Bell, who will distribute the items Dec. 23 atLipsey Middle School.

The gifts, which range from coats to jogging suits to otherneeded items, are made possible because of generous donations fromindividuals, churches and businesses in the area.

“It’s really nice to see how everybody in the community comestogether every year to make this happen,” said Bell, who has beenchairman of Brookhaven Toys for Tots since it began in 1986.

He is thankful for the opportunity to see joy brought to needychildren in the community each Christmas.

“This is something I personally look forward to every year,” hesaid. “My heart goes out to every person in need.”

Brookhaven Toys for Tots has served over 3,000 children since alocal manufacturing company generously spread the Christmas spirit14 years ago.

“It was created in 1986 when Stahl-Urban, now known as AuburnSportswear, donated some 300 coats during the Christmas season,”remembered Bell.

While many businesses continue the spirit by donating items tothe program, funds are also needed to keep the effort going strong,said Bell.

Fund-raisers are currently being planned by Martha Morgan, whois helping implement the program this year.

“We are planning on having two fund-raisers,” she said,mentioning a silent dessert auction at King’s Daughters MedicalCenter on Dec. 20.

Anyone wishing to make donations or find out more informationabout Brookhaven Toys for Tots, should call Bell at 833-7417.