COLUMBUS — Ohio’s oil and gas industry is partnering with Toys for Tots in eight counties in Eastern Ohio to distribute toys that have been donated to those in need in early December.

The Toys for Tots program, with roots dating back to 1947, has helped countless families over the years. This year, as in the past, the local oil and gas industry has joined in to help. Williams, Expand Energy, Gulfport Energy, Infinity Natural Resources, EOG Resources, Ascent Resources and Pin Oak Energy are this year’s hosts

Many local churches, small businesses, schools and individuals have contributed new, unwrapped toys as well as monetary donations in record numbers this year, and the oil and gas industry is helping to get those donations in the hands of those who need them the most this year.

Those who wish to sign up need to register online at Toys For Tots, click on the “Request a Toy” section at the top and follow the prompts. Forms must be submitted by Dec. 1 to be included in the program. For any other questions, contact Deb Oberlin at ohtoysfortots@gmail.com or 330-418-2330. Visit the Ohio Toys for Tots Facebook page if you have submitted a toy request but have not been contacted to confirm your pickup day, time and location.

“While Christmas is the best day of the year for some of us, unfortunately for far too many it is not, and it reminds them that perhaps they don’t have anyone to spend the day with or find it hard to deliver on a promise to their children for that special toy,” said Mike Chadsey, deputy coordinator for Toys for Tots and director of external affairs for the Ohio Oil & Gas Association. “That is what makes this effort so special for those of us who work in this great industry, because we believe to whom much is given, much is expected. Not only is this our pleasure, but we believe it’s also our responsibility.”

“I have enjoyed partnering with Ohio’s oil and gas industry these last 10 years because these companies and their people have giving hearts and have been an equal partner with the foundation and we could not do what we do without them,” said Toys for Tots Coordinator Deb Oberlin.

County distribution dates along with their hosts for the 2024 program are listed below:

Harrison County Hosted by Williams – Dec. 3 at the Scio Fire Department 318 W. Main St., Scio.

Monroe County Hosted by Expand Energy – Dec. 4 at Generations Complex, 47115 Black Walnut Parkway, Woodsfield.

Belmont County Hosted by Gulfport Energy – Dec. 5 at First Presbyterian Church, 110 S. Marietta St., St. Clairsville

Jefferson County Hosted by Ascent Resources — Dec. 10 at Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, 256 John Scott Highway #3001, Steubenville.

Distributions are also scheduled for Guernsey, Noble, Carroll and Columbiana counties.

The rental truck delivering all the toys is being sponsored this year by EQT with the fuel sponsored by Blackrock Resources.