Dear Portland Press Herald Toy Fund,

I work with a community which is composed of low-income families, many of which have children. I see, first-hand, how difficult the holidays can be for these families. They want to bring the joy of the season to their children just like everyone else, but oftentimes do not have the extra money to buy gifts.

I see the relief and appreciation on the parents’ faces when they come to pick up their toys. The Portland Press Herald Toy fund helped 23 families within the community where I work. These families had a much happier holiday because of the generosity of donors as well as volunteers.

From a community worker

The Portland Press Herald Toy Fund aimed to provide toys for up to 7,000 children in Cumberland, York, Sagadahoc, Lincoln and Knox counties.

Donations can still be made on the website pressheraldtoyfund.org or checks can be made out to the Portland Press Herald Toy Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 7310, Portland, ME 04112.

The campaign’s fundraising goal this season is $300,000. The total raised so far is $120,494.91.

Maine Jobs Monster Minstrels $100

Portland Press Herald Toy Fund Kick Off Event $3,900

Linda Snow Parker $25

Robert & Elizabeth Crane $25

Portland Press Herald Toy Fund Box Campaign $251