Published: October 18, 2007 11:36 pm      

Toy for Tots sign-ups scheduled, Christmas Shop collecting gifts

Christmas is just around the corner, at least as far as two charity drives are concerned.

The Johnstown Marine Corps Reserve has announced the “Toys for Tots” sign-ups for needy families.

• Johnstown area residents: Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 436 Vine St., Johnstown, 536-8844.

• Somerset residents: Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Salvation Army, 140 E. Fairview Ave., Somerset, 445-9232.

• Bedford residents: Nov. 15 and 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Bedford County Library, 240 W. Wood St., Bedford, 623-4804.

Applicants will be asked to provide proof of address and a current photo ID.

Also, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill Cambria County affiliate is collecting items for its annual Spirit of Christmas Shop.

NAMI’s Drop-In Center, 240 Vine St. in Johnstown, will be transformed into a “department store” to provide clients who may be on a fixed income the opportunity to buy Yuletide gifts for family and friends.

New or like-new items are needed, including women’s and men’s items, household items, toys for various age groups and Christmas items.

The Christmas shop is funded entirely through donations from residents and businesses.

For more information on how to donate: 539-2724.