Construction technology program students from the Floyd County Schools College & Career Academy recently worked with Toys for Tots to design and build a large wooden toy box.

The toy collection box has been rolling around Mount Berry Square since the end of October and will remain there until Dec. 16. The box will be used as a drop off point for shoppers who would like to donate any new, unwrapped toy to Toys for Tots.

Pictured are students who were involved with the project: Patrick Parks, Kelli Arthur, Tyler Royston, Colbey Johnson, Coty Dodson, Cody Abbott, Nick Cruz, Sergio Romano and Brandon Bailey. The program instructor is Joe Carter.

The project is sponsored by mall representative Carole Hunter, Phillip Gaines, owner of Hi-Tech Signs, Toys for Tots coordinator Ken Futch and volunteers Beverly Carter and Diana Davis.

Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity is the fund raising, funding and support organization for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program.

The foundation was created at the behest of the U. S. Marine Corps and provides support in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, who directs the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The Foundation has supported Toys for Tots since 1991.

The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

For more information about the local program, call 706-291-4745.