MEXICO – Toys, money and warm winter clothing have been arriving steadily at Santa’s Helpers during the past few months, but more is needed.

“The need is there,” said Julie Steward of Dixfield, one of the volunteers who has been sorting donations and shopping for things the 150 or so families need.

The upstairs hall of the Free Store is almost full of children’s boots, parkas, hand-crocheted or knitted hats and mittens, games, dolls, toys and lots of other items children would like to see under their Christmas tree.

Preparing for the annual event takes all year, said Steward, who has volunteered her time for the past three years.

Making sure that every child receives warm clothing for Christmas was started by Dot Sanchas, a much-loved Rumford woman who also started the Free Store. Even with her passing last month, her contributions continue.

A giving tree was set up at her wake and funeral where scores of people left dozens of items to be distributed this year, Steward said.

In addition to the generous merchandise or monetary gifts given by civic organizations, businesses and individuals, a Halloween party was held in Andover this year where the admittance was a new child’s toy.

Steward said nearly 90 families have applied for Christmas assistance so far. She expects well over 150 by the Dec. 5 deadline. This year is unusual, she said, because so many of the families have four or five or more children. Also, she said many new families have applied this year, something she attributes to the depressed economy.

Each child receives a new hat and pair of mittens, a toy, and a warm winter coat, ski pants or boots.

Those who wish to donate money or items may contact the Free Store during business hours, Monday through Friday, until Dec. 15. Any donations received after the Dec. 5 pickup date will be used to shop the after Christmas sales for next year’s Santas Helpers event.

Those who are in need may also contact the Free Store in the former Knights of Columbus Hall on state Route 17 prior to Dec. 5.

Santas Helpers benefits deserving families in Rumford, Mexico, Dixfield, Peru, Carthage, Roxbury, Byron and Andover.

Margaret McNeal, Dot Sanchas’ daughter, coordinates the annual effort.