Ron Chimelis

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Families in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties benefit from program overseen by Salvation Army

Kent Pecoy of Wilbraham still faces separate charges from a 2019 case.

The Westfield Starfires and Valley Blue Sox are back.

The sport’s birthplace saluted Hector “Picky” Soto.