While shopping for Christmas gifts, many islanders never forget Toys for Tots.

The Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots drive helps provide a festive Christmas for needy children, and this year they’re collecting more than ever.

Marines were at Whidbey Island Ford Tuesday morning collecting toys and they can be found at major stores, such as Kmart and Wal-Mart, throughout the holiday season.

Staff Sgt. David Hawkins said donations have been pouring in this year. Last year the collection filled one large storage unit while this year’s collection has already filled two and is working on a third.

“We’re doing a lot better than we did last year,” Hawkins said. A Marine is collecting toys at Kmart every day and one will be at Wal-Mart Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Also, unmanned collection boxes are available at businesses throughout Whidbey Island. They can be found at Key Bank, Navy Federal, the VFW, CPO Club, Navy Exchange, Pizza Factory, Quiznos, Greenbank Farm, Island Athletic Club, Ace Hardware, Coopers Auto, Les Schwab Tire Center, Dollar Store, Neil’s Clover Patch, Hanson’s Building Supply, and Saucy’s Pizza.

The Lions Club and the U.S. Power Squadron are holding dinners to collect toys to ensure every child receives a toy for Christmas.

“No child is going to go without,” said Tom Keltner, with the Marine Corps Reserve Whidbey Island Detachement 1210.

He encouraged needy families with children to call for help.

“If we get a phone call from anyone who’s fallen through the cracks, we’ll make a delivery,” Keltner said.

For information about donating or receiving toys, call Hawkins at 720-4862 or Keltner at 360-221-8145 or by e-mail at toys4tots@whidbey.com.