LEWISTON – The Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce is again, after its successful efforts over the past few years, teaming up with Androscoggin County Head Start, Advocates for Children and Tri-County Mental Health Services to brighten the holidays for local families in need.

The chamber’s goal is to donate as many gifts as they have members – that would be almost 1,300 presents.

Until Thursday, Dec. 20, residents can donate new toys and clothes appropriate for children. Items can be delivered, unwrapped, to the chamber at 415 Lisbon St. (or give them a call and they’ll pick them up), take items to the chamber breakfast on Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Ramada Inn, or take them to Business After Hours at Lost Valley in Auburn on Dec. 20, where representatives of Head Start, Advocates for Children and Tri-County Mental Health Services will be present to thank donors and collect the items for the kids.

In addition, Scott Riccio of Northeast Charter and Tour has donated the services of a tour bus to pick up items from chamber members. A bus will also be located at the Auburn Mall from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16, to accept items.

Chip Morrison, chamber executive director, said, “Chamber Kids for the Holidays is one of the most gratifying efforts the chamber conducts each year. Knowing chamber members are making so many local kids happy during the holiday season is a blessing . . . it gives us all a warm feeling in our hearts. Help us stuff the bus!”

For more information, call Sue at the chamber at 783-2249 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

To learn more about the chamber and membership benefits, contact Alice Chamberlin Mogensen at the number above or at [email protected].