The holiday season is starting off on the right foot. Around 20,000 toys are already in house, waiting to be sorted, counted and gifted.

"We are definitely open for business fully," Staff Sgt. James Caldwell said.

Toys for Tots in Worcester County was left with an overflow of toys from last year. Donations stayed steady, but because of the pandemic, they couldn't get as many toys out the door.  

"We've got tons of toys," Staff Sgt. Caldwell said. "Please come and get them."

The extra toys come at a perfect time because the number of kids in need of toys is expected to jump. 

"This year our numbers are expected to go up by around 5,000-6,000 kids in the Worcester County area," Staff Sgt. Caldwell said. " We are well compensated and ready to make sure every kid gets a toy."

The program is supported by the Marine Corps Reserve and works to get toys in the hands of children who need them in time for the holidays. 

Staff Sgt Caldwell knows better than most people what it means to a kid to see toys under the tree. 

"To know that there are kids out there who are used to going with very little, they will be able to get some toys as well," Staff Sgt. Caldwell said. 

He was in foster care growing up and was a kid in the Toys for Tots program.

"When you come in and see their huge smiles when they see these huge mounds of toys it's a pretty awesome feeling," Staff Sgt. Caldwell said. 

It's his way of giving back, so he is determined to pull in about 40,000 more toys by the end of the season.

Staff Sgt. Caldwell said they are always accepting toy donations. But this year Toys for Tots is also looking for volunteers and donations of cargo vans or box trucks.

For more information, visit the Toys for Tots website.