MERCED — The Merced Sheriff's Office will be having its annual Toy Drive from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at 23rd and M streets and Olive Avenues and G Street in Merced, according to a department press release.

Deputies will be raising toys and funds to distribute to underprivileged children and low income families. Residents can make a donation at either location.

If anyone would like to make a donation, they can drop off a new unwrapped toy at the department's Command Post at 700 West 22nd St. or make a cash donation. Donation checks can be written out to "Merced County's Most Wanted," a non-profit organization that works in conjunction with the sheriff's department. Donations are tax deductible.

Deputy Tom Mackenie, sheriff's spokesman, said this year promises to be tougher than last year in terms of the economy and the department's asking the public for any help they can provide in making it a wonderful Christmas for a young child, by donating whatever they can afford.

-- Sun-Star staff