AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Toys for Tots is experiencing a critical shortage of donations for children ages 6 and older as the holiday season approaches, with donation boxes sitting nearly empty for that age group.

The charity received 900 family applications for assistance in just two weeks after opening on Oct. 1. The overwhelming demand forced organizers to close applications by Oct. 5.

“We’re trying our best to fulfill whatever needs we can with the stuff that we got coming in,” said Keith Phillips, Toys for Tots CSRA coordinator.

Hurricane Helene, Government shutdown and rising costs cause challenges

Phillips said this year’s need exceeds previous years due to lingering effects from Hurricane Helene and other economic pressures.

Zipline project in Augusta stalled due to federal p

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