PORTLAND – The Joy of Sharing program, the annual toy and fund-raising drive, a joint effort of the Salvation Army, Hannaford Supermarkets and WGME News 13, will run from Dec. 1 to 18.

This year Reny’s and Lamey Wellahan stores join Hannaford locations as toy collection sites. “We are excited not only at the lineup of talent who will be appearing to help children, but also the fact that the public will have more locations to drop off new, unwrapped toys,” said Salvation Army Divisional Commander Major Richard Munn. Kettles will also be on display for those who wish to make cash contributions.

The Joy of Sharing is the Salvation Army’s most successful single holiday toy and contribution program. Last year almost 10,000 gifts were collected and $83,000 was raised. The effort will be boosted by special events, free and open to the public. Scheduled to appear in the area:

Mount Ararat High School music students and Santa Claus at the Topsham Hannaford store from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11.

The U.S. Air Force F-16 “mini-jet,” Raptor, and interactive trailer at the Augusta Whitten Road Hannaford store from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16.

Wrestler Scotty 2 Hotty at the Lewiston Hannaford store from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18.

Those who wish to donate on line can visit www.angelgivingtree.org. Site visitors can choose a toy that will be shipped to the nearest Salvation Army community center. For more information contact Pat James at the Salvation Army at 774-6304, extension 232.