It is that time of year where everyone seems to be running around, searching for the perfect gift for their loved ones.

What makes a perfect gift will be different for everyone, but for many children in our community, the question of whether Santa will be able to bring them presents — the way he does for the little boys and girls whose parents didn’t lose a job or face unexpected medical bills or other already heartbreaking situations — is a question.

We of course all know how overworked Saint Nick is this time of year, so it is time for locals to step to the plate and help the children of Troup County.

First responders from across the county joined together with the Marine Corps League to do just that with Toys for Tots this weekend, and their boxes of toys and buckets of funds raised will go a long way toward making the holiday brighter for local children, but there is still so much help needed.

The group plans to be out there again this upcoming weekend, but even if you will be busy then, there are still plenty of locations where donations can be dropped off, including local businesses, the police department, and fire department.

There are of course other ways to help like the Empty Stocking Fund and support for other local groups who help local children, where donations can be given, but the important part is to give with that holiday spirit.

No child should have to do without, especially during the holidays, so now is the time to do something about it.