The annual Toys for Tots campaign is under way, with barrels placed throughout town welcoming new toys for Winona's needy children.

The drive is coordinated by the Winona-area Hiawatha Valley Marines in partnership with the Winona Police Department and the Winona County Sheriff's Department.

The group provided Christmas gifts last year to more than 1,000 Winona-area children in about 370 families.

To donate, drop off new, unwrapped toys in barrels placed throughout town. Donations may also be made to to the group's treasurer, Greg Kuehntopp, 6305 W. Fifth St., Goodview.

The toys will be distributed from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Winona Mall. Parents needing a toy for a child younger than 14 are invited.