Ron Chimelis

Literacy effort is key component of campaign, bringing a brand-new book to each child

Salvation Army says gift of 600 books will fill needed gaps in gift packages

The Springfield-headquartered firm has been a perennial donor to Toy for Joy

The shortfall of more than $60,000 is the largest in the more than century old history of the community fundraising effort

Every year, the generosity of residents and businesses across Western Massachusetts brings smiles and joy to hundreds of families and thousands of children who would otherwise not know the joy of the Christmas holiday season. It's that time again. For the 102nd year of its proud existence, the Toy for Joy campaign is underway.

For the 102nd year, the Toy for Joy Christmas drive will allow children 16 and under to experience the joy of a Christmas gift that so many families have grown up taking for granted, but which otherwise would not be available or affordable for them.

The campaign runs until Christmas Eve with a goal of $150,000. Gifts will be distributed from Salvation Army locations in Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield.

The campaign deadline of Dec. 24 comes so quickly. But donations received just before or on that date, or in the mail just after the deadline, count just as much and will go directly toward providing toys, games and books to children from Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties.

The Springfield citadel of the Salvation Army served about 1,600 families and between 3,500 and 4,000 children. Citadels in Holyoke and Greenfield also served the area’s children from Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties.

The final numbers came to $101,972 for the 102nd edition of Toy for Joy, one of New England's most enduring holiday traditions.