Attendees will be able to gain admittance to a Longwood men’s basketball game Nov. 29 for the price of a toy. According to Heart of Virginia Christmas Mother President Kate Pickett Eggleston, toys given in replace of the price of a ticket, at the game, will be donated to the Heart of Virginia Christmas Mother by the Farmville Jaycees, who organize the toy drive annually.

“We’re really lucky because Hampden-Sydney College has a game that night as well at (7 p.m.) and they’re doing the same promotion,” Eggleston said.

In addition to the two toy drive events, the Southside Virginia Family YMCA has an, “Angel Tree,” which has angel ornaments on the tree with information about children who are in need of toys and ideas for the toys.

“Angel tree is a great opportunity for children and families to help other children in our community,” said board member Alex Stewart. “We hope that in choosing a specific angel based on age, gender and toy interests, there will be an instant connection to the child(ren) who will receive the gifts.”

She said the organization’s wish is for families to take the time to experience the excitement of giving during this season, “while also providing presents for kids who would otherwise be without.”

Eggleston said the organization is looking for volunteers for the week of toy distribution.

“Distribution day is Dec. 6 and we could really use volunteers Monday and Tuesday during the day to help us with set up and organizing the toys and also Wednesday to do the same thing to help with our shoppers pick up toys for their children,” Eggleston said.

She said the organization is also “a little over halfway,” from meeting their fundraising goal.

“We really need people to donate and no amount is too small,” Eggleston said. “We really are only able to do this through the community and we appreciate all the support we’ve been given.”

According to Eggleston, those interested in donating or volunteering can contact heartofvirginiachristmasmother@gmail.com.