Photo Provided Martins Ferry American Legion Post 38 is collecting donations to give back to the community. The legion is accepting non-perishable food donations until Nov. 13 and toys for Toys for Tots until Dec. 1.

MARTINS FERRY — Martins Ferry American Legion Post 38 is collecting donations to give back to the community.

The legion is accepting non-perishable food items to donate to a local food pantry. Any non-perishable food items can be dropped off in the collection box inside the legion’s doors until Nov. 13.

According to the legion’s Facebook page, many food pantries need extra support during the holiday season, so the drive will help the pantry stock up before Thanksgiving.

The legion is also participating in the Marine Corps’ annual Toys for Tots campaign. American Legion posts across the nation participate in the program every year to give Christmas presents to children in need.

According to the Toys for Tots website: “Marine Toys for Tots programs bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to America’s disadvantaged children. To date, we’ve distributed 652 million toys to 291 million deserving children.”

Any new, unwrapped toys, games and sports equipment for children can be dropped off in the collection box inside the legion’s doors until Dec. 1. All donations will support children in need in the Ohio Valley.

Anyone who would like to sign their child up to receive a toy can fill out an application on the Toys for Tots website. Deborah Oberlin is the Toys for Tots coordinator for Belmont, Harrison, Monroe and several other counties in Eastern Ohio.

Toys for Tots also accepts monetary donations, which can be made on its website.

The program began in 1947.

For more information about the Toys for Tots program or to request a toy, visit toysfortots.org.

According to the Martins Ferry American Legion Post 38 Facebook group: “Service not Self is a core value of the American Legion Auxiliary. It motivates our members and volunteers into action. Support our veterans and outreach programs by volunteering and attending events.”

Martins Ferry American Legion Post 38 is located at 221 Zane Highway, across from the city park. For more information about the legion and upcoming events, visit the Martins Ferry American Legion Post 38 Facebook group, call 740-633-1494 or get in touch with any of its members.