NEWBERRY COUNTY — The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office is preparing for one of the year’s special operations with Operation Santa Claus.

Each year, the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office joins forces with businesses and citizens across the county to help less fortunate families during the holiday season. The operation provides toys for children and when possible food boxes to the families of those having a difficult time often made worse during the holiday season.

Last year, the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office provided toys to more than 400 children across Newberry County and because of the continued economic woes, that number is expected to increase this year.

Several area businesses, churches, and community groups are assisting with this year’s operation to help the Sheriff’s Office prepare for the anticipated increase in requests.

The Newberry Community Choir will be performing on Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and Dec. 2 at Newberry Elementary School. Deputies will be on hand at each of the concerts where toys or cash donations can be made to the operation.

Several area industries have boxes available for donation to be made while at work.

Citizens wishing to make donations may bring their new unwrapped toys or cash donation to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office located at 520 Wilson Road in Newberry. All toys and cash donations go directly to serving needy families in Newberry County.

Those who would like to request services this year should come to the Newberry Rescue Squad located on Adelaide Street in Newberry from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 27 through Nov. 29. You will need to bring proof of residency in Newberry County by valid identification, birth certificate of the child or children who need services, and some documentation of the need for assistance. Those who have not received services in the past will receive first priority in services this year, and all names will be checked against other agencies offering similar services in the county to insure that the maximum possible families receive assistance.

Distribution of toys will be Dec. 19 through Dec. 21. Those selected to receive assistance will be notified of the details on when and where to pick up the toys.

If you have any questions or need additional information, contact the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office at 321-2211. No requests for assistance will be taken by telephone.