In less than a year, Justin and Jason Maddy have gained more than 20,000 followers on their Tri-State Pickers Facebook page.

Now, they are hoping those followers will help their food and toy drive become a success.

Called Pickin’ for a Cause, the goal is to collect non-perishable food items and new toys so those in need can have a brighter holiday season.

“Times are hard,” Justin said. “We figured we’d help people out.”

This is the first food and toy drive effort for the pickers, but they are hoping the community will show its support.

“If there is 20,000 people on Tri-State Pickers, and everyone donates one can of food, we could have 20,000 cans of food,” Justin said. “That’s what we’re shooting for.”

Jason said he and the other Facebook site administrators have already gotten messages about people in need and they have already started compiling a list of names. Toys and food will be distributed using local food pantries and church organizations as well.

Saturday, the Maddys were stationed at the Upper Township Volunteer Fire Department, one of the item drop-off locations.

Chief J.D. Pancake said he has known the Maddys since they were in school together and wanted to get involved with the drive.

“I automatically volunteered the fire department,” Pancake said.

From noon to 5 p.m. each Saturday until Dec. 15, the Upper Township fire station on State Route 141 will be open for the public to drop off items.

Pancake also said he personally spoke with each fire department in the county to ask for their support. On Dec. 15, the last day of the drive, each fire department in the county will open up as drop off locations for items.

Lenny’s Diner on State Route 93 will also accept donations from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and from 10 a.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays. First American Loans in the Ironton Hills Shopping Plaza will accept donations from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

Monetary donations are also accepted through PayPal by emailing tristatepickers@roadrunner.com