Some parents shared stories of dangerous and difficult journeys to the U.S. that have left them without the means to buy presents for the children.

Each of the thousands of Maine children served by the Toy Fund will get a new book plus several toys as part of their holiday celebrations this year.

Many parents writing into the charity describe feelings of guilt and shame over asking for help to make their children smile.

The Press Herald Toy Fund received applications for nearly 5,000 children this year. Parents began to pick up gifts this week.

Letters to the charity describe Maine kids facing cancer, major surgeries and long trips for care. The Toy Fund aims to lighten the load for those children and their families.