It is wonderful to see so many of our citizens with giving hearts this Christmas season.

On Friday, cadets with the Bainbridge High School JROTC presented the local Salvation Army branch with more than 6,000 toys that have been collected through the “Toys for Tots” donation drive. In addition, another 1,000 toys have been collected by the Deep South Riders and other groups, for the Family Connection’s “Secret Santa” toy drive. Family Connection Coordinator said those 1,000 toys will be given to more than 300 children in more than 100 local needy families.

The opportunities for giving continue even today, Saturday, Dec. 15. Today, the Georgia State Patrol and Decatur County Sheriff’s Office are combining efforts for another “Toys for Tots” drive at the Bainbridge Walmart, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The officers will also be accepting donations, as well as new toys still in their original packaging.

Also today, 13-year-old Ryan Adams is selling hot cocoa to raise money for local needy families. His sale will be in the parking lot in front of Belk and Golden Corral, on Shotwell Street.

Please do your part to help give to those less fortunate this Christmas, and have a happy holiday season.