Toys for tots to teens are needed for first responders' Toy Roundup

Businesses and individuals are invited to donate toys for the less fortunate children in Port Aransas through the Port Aransas Emergency Services Toy Roundup. The collection of toys will continue through Dec. 21.

Kristen Barton of EMS said there is a severe shortage in toy donations this year. Last year 142 kids were served, and so far this year, there are not enough toys to fill a box for one child.

When making a toy donation, don't forget kids 12 and older, as there is often a shortage of gifts for teens, according to Kristin Barton at EMS.

New unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Port Aransas Police Station , the EMS office at 705 W. Ave. A, the Family Center IGA at 418 S. Alister St., city hall at 710 W. Ave. A, ValueBank at 500 S. Alister St., Ellis Memorial Library, 710 W. Ave. A, Momentum, 124 E. Ave. G and The University of Texas at Aus- tin Marine Science Institute at 750 Channel View Drive.

Monetary donations may be left at city hall, 710 W. Ave. A, at the EMS office or mailed to Port Aransas EMS, Attention: Emergency Services Toy Roundup, 705 W. Ave. A, Port Aransas, TX 78373.

Checks should be made payable to Emergency Services Toy Roundup.

Applications for recipient families may be picked up at the EMS office or the police department through Wednesday, Dec. 10.

Applications for toys must include proof of residency in Port Aransas with a rent or utility bill having a Port Aransas zip code and some form of identification.

Parents will pick up the unwrapped toys before Christmas along with wrapping paper and tape.

Due to the generosity of one individual, the Roundup now has plenty of storage space for the toys.

The Toy Roundup is a joint venture of all emergency services; police, fire and medical.

For more information, call the EMS office at 749-4405.