ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Hundreds of children in multiple counties will get a merrier Christmas this year thanks to the work of the Marine Corps Toys for Tots and generous donations from members of the oil and gas industry.

On Monday, The Market at Ebbert Farm hosted a toy giveaway for children of Belmont County. Ohio Oil and Gas Association said EQT and Equitrans Midstream are sponsoring the event.

“They’ve donated some money. They’ve donated some time today, and we’ve got I think 260 families (and 660 children) scheduled for today to come through,” said Mike Chadsey, director of public relations for the Ohio Oil and Gas Association.

The giveaway will also be held in Harrison County today, Jefferson County Wednesday, Carroll County on Thursday, Monroe County on Friday and Columbiana County on Saturday.

Each of the counties is expected to have similar numbers. Other oil and gas companies such as Williams pipeline company, Ascent Resources, Caroll County Energy, and Equinor will be involved in the giveaways in those counties.

“We’ve raised about $25,000 this year from the oil and gas industry for this week,” he said. “We went to a couple stores … purchased toys tax-free because of the foundation, and are distributing them. … They are not only contributing financially…they are contributing staff to help unload and set up.”

“It’s our privilege to work with EQT and Equitrans and members like them this week to raise $25,000 and contribute some toys to some kids in need this holiday season. It’s a fun day,” Chadsey added.

“We think it’s a great way to give back to the community and help impact a lot of children this holiday season,” added Brad Bodkin, local government and community affairs specialist with EQT.

This is the sixth year of partnering with Toys for Tots.

Jerry Ebbert said his farm was happy to host the event for the fourth year.

“We really believe in what the Toys for Tots program is doing and just glad we can be a part of making it happen,” he said.