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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

The Town of Maplesville is once again looking to help families that might have a difficult time this Christmas purchasing gifts for their children.

Applications for the Toys for Kids program are being accepted earlier this year because of concern that supply chain issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic could impact the availability of toys, coordinator Cindy Brown said.

Some purchasing has already begun to ensure there will be enough this year.

“Last year, we helped about 20 families and 45 kids,” Brown said.

Applications can be picked up at Maplesville Town Hall Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Oct. 19. The deadline to return the application is Nov. 16. Completed applications can be returned on Tuesdays between the two dates.

Anyone who knows of a family that may be in need can contact the town hall to nominate them before Nov. 16.

The plan is to finish the shopping before Thanksgiving.

Families would pick up the presents on Dec. 17 from 8 a.m. to noon.

The application asks for birth certificates for each of the children, documentation of any financial assistance being received (such as food stamps) and proof of income (W-2 or paycheck).

A $2 application donation per child is also requested. These funds go toward purchasing the toys, Brown said.

For families with three or more children, a flat $5 donation is requested.

The program is open to Maplesville residents. Brown said they focus on providing Christmas for the town’s children who may not receive something otherwise.

Monetary donations to the program are received throughout the year. Now, the town hall is also accepting new and like-new toys, children’s books and coats during normal business hours. She said the program tries to include some educational things along with the toys each year. For more details, contact town hall at 334-366-4211.

The Toys for Kids program was started by former Maplesville Police Chief George Smith around 1990, and Brown has coordinated the program for the last seven years.