As kids across Southern West Virginia wake up on Christmas morning, for some there won't be a present under the tree.
"Everybody knows that feeling on Christmas morning when you walk down the stairs and get that. Some families just can't afford to do that right now," said Sgt. Brandon Hyden with the U.S. Marine Corps.
According to Hyden, Toys for Tots is facing one of its toughest years yet, with demand for presents up and donations down.
On Saturday, Marquee Cinemas in Beckley teamed up with Toys for Tots for a last minute collection push.
The theater offered a free showing of ‘A Christmas Story' to families that brought an unwrapped toy to the movie.
"The need is the largest it has ever been. I got numbers yesterday for Wyoming County. We were at 2,146. I have never in my life seen that many kids from one county. Never," said Toys for Tots program coordinator Pam Vines.
This year, Vines said Toys for Tots has raised more than $18 thousand. But that is still more than $30 thousand away from meeting the need.
"It really does something to you. I just don't think that any child should have to go without a toy on Christmas morning. And that's our goal. Our Children our are future," added Vines.
Anyone interested in contributing to Toys for Tots before Thursday may drop off a check or unwrapped toy at the Beckley Auto Mall.
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