Volunteers are working again this year to make Christmas a little merrier for soldiers serving overseas.

A third-annual Stockings for Soldiers drive is now underway through Nov. 12. For the past two years, approximately 400 stockings, filled with goodies, have been collected for troops.

Last year, stockings were sent to Iraq and Kuwait. This year, they will be given to soldiers in Afghanistan.

Stockings and supplies for stockings may be left at Clanton First United Methodist Church during business hours.

Many people choose to make their own stockings, but items to stuff the stockings with and monetary donations may also be left at the church.

The last day to contribute stockings or supplies is Friday, Nov. 12.

Stephanie Gibson is helping organize the drive again this year.

“Let’s make a difference again this year,” Gibson said. “Let’s bring a smile to a soldier’s face by letting them know that in Chilton County, Alabama, we are praying and thinking about our soldiers.”

Items to put in the stockings include:

-Gum, Lifesavers and hard candy.

-Power bars, protein bars, beef jerky, nuts and trail mix.

-Single serving drink mix (Kool-Aid, Tang, Gatorade, lemonade, coffee or tea).

-Canned sardines, smoked oysters, ravioli, other small canned ready-to-eat foods and Ramen noodles.

-Playing cards, yo-yos and tennis balls.

-Chap stick and alcohol-free waterless hand cleaner.

-Disposable cameras and movie DVDs (new or used, originals only).

-Cotton socks (white) and sock hats (dark colors).

-Handwritten letter, Christmas card or Bible verse.

-Do not send any liquids or anything flammable.