By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

As volunteers for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys For Tots campaign continue to pick up donated toys at drop boxes across the region, Hays coordinator Ryan Bickle said this year the group is trying something new to bring in more donations.

Bickle, president of sales at Federated Auto Parts in Hays, said he and other volunteers will be walking alongside the Federated float at Saturday evening’s FrostFest Parade in downtown Hays collecting toys or monetary donations. The 14th annual parade is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.

“We have no idea what to expect at the parade,” Bickle smiled, adding he is hoping the word gets out and people will show up with donations for the annual toy drive.

The last day to donate toys is Dec.8.

Bickle said the toys will then be delivered to members of the Marine Corps in Hays and Hill City, who will sort and distribute the gifts in Ellis County and across western Kansas. The monetary donations are used to buy gifts for older children, who tend to not receive as many donations as younger kids.