The Portland Press Herald Toy Fund aims to provide toys for 7,000 children in Cumberland, York, Sagadahoc, Lincoln and Knox counties. Applications are being accepted and readers of the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram are once again encouraged to put smiles on children’s faces during the holiday season.

Applications can be made at pressheraldtoyfund.org. Donations can also be made on the website or checks can be made out to the Portland Press Herald Toy Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 7310, Portland, ME 04112.

The campaign’s fundraising goal this year is $300,000. The total raised so far is $2,400.

Each day of the toy fund campaign, the Press Herald will run letters from applicants:

Aside from financial facts and figures, I want to provide my children with happy memories of Christmas. I think, more than having something, I want my children to know that they are special and are thought of. A gift is a nice way to let them know. My kids are very grateful and happy with what they have.

One day a year, I think it is OK for them to expect a little something special. They never ask, so I’d like to surprise them. I have to have the means to do so.

Thank you so much for your consideration and blessings.

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