The deadline to apply to receive toys through the Marine Toys for Tots drive is Friday and organizers say no late applications will be accepted this year.

Several years ago, the local Toys for Tots drive switched to an online application form. Because they did not want any needy families to be excluded from receiving toys, drive organizers accepted applications from people who came in seeking toys after the official deadline. Due to the pandemic, people are not be able to show up at Toys for Tots headquarters and apply for toys this year. So organizers say it is imperative that families apply for toys online by Friday.

To find the online application form, go to www.jamestown-ny.toysfortots.org.

Organizers say the personal economic hardships local families are experiencing because of the pandemic have led to a record number of applications for assistance through Toys for Tots. As of Tuesday morning, 3.467 Chautauqua County children had been registered, surpassing last year’s total of 3,289, organizers said.

The Marine Toys for Tots provides toys to children up to age 17. Chautauqua County’s Toys for Tots drive is coordinated each year by The Resource Center and the Chautauqua Connections Children’s Coalition. Because of the generosity of area residents and businesses, last year’s toy drive was able to distribute more than 5,000 toys.

With more children registered to receive toys this year, organizers are going to need more toys. Toy drop-off boxes are located at numerous local businesses. People also can make a financial donation online at www.HDIforU.com/donate; those who choose to donate online should mention the Chautauqua County toy drive in the “comment” box as they complete their transaction.

Organizers like the online donation option for several reasons: it allows donors to “shop” for toys without going to a store, as the web site vendor will select toys and send them to the local toy drive; it doubles the amount donated, in the sense that a $100 donation yields $200 worth of toys; and it enables a business or group of people to maximize the impact of their donation by pooling their money and making a donation, which then is in effect doubled.

For questions or comments regarding this year’s toy drive, email Jamestown.ny@toysfortots.org.