POMEROY — Christmas toys for children and food for families will again this year be distributed to those in need by the Meigs Cooperative Parish at the Mulberry Communty Center in Pomeroy.

The Parish is currently accepting applications for both toys and food, and are still accepting donations to fill the needs of local residents.

Bikers in the county held a toy run on Oct. 20 to raise money to help buy toys to be given out to parents for Christmas giving to their children. A tentative distribution date is Dec. 22, according to Nancy Thoene who coordinates the project. Parents must file an application for toys for their children no later than Nov. 30. Signups are being taken now from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Parish office. Those who have questions about the toy program may call 740-992-7400.

It is requested that those who have signed up for toys from other agencies or churches, not apply for toys from the Parish. An emphasis is being placed on avoiding duplication which helps the Parish reach more children who are not registered to receive toys from another source, said Jenni Dunham who assists with the program.

As for the food pantry, applications will also be taken any day between 9 and 11 a.m. through November.

Qualifications have been adjusted to 130 percent of the poverty guideline. Those applying must bring a current electric bill, picture identification, and proof of income. That information will satisfy requirements for assistance through November, 2013, Thoene said.

This year there be one bag of food per family with either a chicken or ham. Distribution will start on Dec. 4 and continue through Dec. 21 for pickup between 9 and 11 a.m. only. Again this year Farmers Bank employees will help bag the food for the give-away. Contributions of food and money toward the Christmas projects are still needed, it was noted.

During Thanksgiving week the Parish office will be closed.