It's the time of year when the hearts of children are filled with dreams of brightly wrapped packages and visions of Santa Claus creeping across the den floor carrying his bag overflowing with toys of all shapes and sizes in keeping the magic of Christmas.

Little eyes can hardly close on Dec. 24 as their minds race with anticipation of what brilliantly wrapped present will bear their names when the early morning sun creeping through the window panes.

But for some children, Christmas morning will be just another day. There'll be no ribbons of red or green embracing brightly wrapped packages placed gently beneath a dimly lit Christmas tree. During this time of the year many children seem to be forced to face the harsh realities of life. Thus the laughter of a 7-year-old is replaced with a tone of acceptance of the "have-nots" and "want-nots."

Toyota of Orangeburg is one business joining forces with the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation and the Greater Edisto Chapter of the American Red Cross to ensure children know the joy and excitement of a visit from Santa Claus. More children this year than ever before have requested help in making their dreams come true.

Through Dec. 11, help the Marines and American Red Cross fill the bed of a Toyota Tacoma with gifts.

"We are asking the community to take a few minutes and a few dollars to make at least one child's Christmas one to remember. If you wrap your present, please be sure to indicate if it is for a boy or girl and the age range," said Janice M. Smith of Toyota of Orangeburg.

Business hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

If you have difficulty getting your package to Toyota of Orangeburg located at 3237 St. Matthews Road (directly across from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College), call Smith at 803-536-4512.

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