This is the 26th year for the annual toy run by Bend area motorcyclists traditionally led out of town by Arnold Priddy in Santa attire.

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POMEROY — Hundreds of little children in disadvantaged families will find gifts under their Christmas tree this year thanks to the generosity of others.

In Meigs County, there are many programs under way to reach the goal of seeing that every child shares in the joy of Christmas by awakening to find they haven’t been forgotten.

Residents of Meigs County, while one of the most economically depressed areas in the state, can be counted on when it comes to giving to those in need. It has been proven time after time that when an appeal goes out help comes in. The need for gifts for children has been heard.

Individuals, organizations and agencies, businesses and churches across this county have joined together, giving of their time, talent and money to see that every child gets Christmas gifts.

Among the most passionate in their drive to see that happens are those who ride motorcycles. For many years they have had a “toy run.” Hundreds from everywhere gather on Pomeroy’s parking lot and, led by Santa, roar out for a ride as a kickoff to their fund drive.

Over the years, they have raised thousands and thousands of dollars to buy gifts for many children. This year was no exception.

Because of the great need this year, the motorcyclists joined with the Meigs Cooperative Parish to carry out the project.

“By combining our efforts, we can be better stewards of what is given to us,” said Don Shaffer. He explained that the Parish cross references with other organizations and agencies to avoid duplications.

Last week a group of motorcyclists met at the Parish to discuss details of need and distribution with Shaffer and Jenni Dunham, coordinator, and to arrange one giant shopping spree to spend the nearly $5,000 they collected toward toys for kids. At last count there were 269 kids on the shopping list. Gifts will be purchased from “want lists” provided by their parents who earlier registered to participate.

Once purchased, all the gifts will be taken to the Center from where they will be distributed from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 22.

Wrapping stations will be set up for those who want to do that before taking them home to put under the Christmas tree.