NATCHEZ — Applications for the Marine Toys for Tots Campaign will open in the coming weeks, and representative Loraine Griffin said applicants have increased by approximately 150 since last year.

Last year, Griffin said Toys for Tots provided gifts for approximately 450 local families. This year, the goal is closer to 600.

“So much has happened in the past year with people losing things because of the weather,” Griffin said. “The number (of applicants) has really jumped.”

Griffin said she is not worried about meeting the heightened need for gifts.

The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, which founded and supports the Toys for Tots Program, sends toys to local branches such as Adams County’s based on the need from the previous year.

Toys for Tots staff will accept applications from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday and again during the same hours Nov. 4 at Living Word Worship Center at 8 Covington Road.

This campaign is for children ages 2 to 16.

Applicants on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) must bring a valid photo ID and a Social Security card for themselves, a birth certificate and Social Security card dated for each child and a Department of Human Services printout dated within the last 30 days.

Applicants who do not receive SNAP should bring a proof of income, a birth certificate and Social Security card dated for each child and a Department of Human Services printout dated within the last 30 days.

Proof of income includes employment, Social Security or child support.

Griffin said Toys for Tots is also currently collecting gifts for the coming Christmas season.

“Right now we have boxes out at different locations in the hopes that the community will put unwrapped (but new) toys in them,” Griffin said.

Deloris Wilson, Toys for Tots coordinator, said 42 donation boxes are scattered across the area in various churches, banks, businesses and restaurants.

Griffin said she has already had to go pick up a full box of toys from the Judge George Armstrong Library.

“It’s all about the kids,” Griffin said. “We’re just trying to get the ball rolling.”