BAINBRIDGE – Approximately 100 people gathered Saturday morning at the corner of Walnut and South Main railroad crossing to take part in the Toys for Tots Christmas train stop, held at the site for the first time this year. In years past, the train would stop in Sidney and changed locations just this year.

Children awaited patiently as the sounds of the Canadian Pacific locomotive whistle were heard. “I hear it ... here it comes,” said an excited toddler nearby and numerous others as they waited.

As the train came to a stop, Santa Claus emerged to a cheering crowd. The atmosphere was complete as Christmas music played loudly in the background and children immediately started lining up to see Santa and get a new toy from his big red gift bag.

Santa, along with Mrs. Claus, local volunteers dressed as elves and well over a dozen United States Marines took part in handing out toy after toy to all the children who came to watch the many volunteers unload the numerous bags of toys for the toy drive held annually across the country for the past 60 years.

“This is my first time doing this,” said Gunner Sergeant Chris Hale. “I think it’s great.”

The Toys for Tots drive is designed to give every child a new toy for Christmas and is funded by the United States Marine Corps, along with the sponsor many merchants and individuals locally and regionally take part in ensuring this dream becomes a reality for every child during the Christmas season.

Local volunteer and elf Heather Morgan says she has taken part in the event every year by helping to hand out toys. “This is a great opportunity, whether you donate or take part in receiving gifts, it is something everyone should look into,” said Morgan.