It’s hard to believe, but we’re already in the midst of the holiday season.

It’s halfway to Thanksgiving and Christmas is just around the corner.

People are getting into the spirit of things — shopping, baking, decorating.

But most importantly, some people in the community are getting into the spirit of giving.

This year, organizers with the BackPack Buddies program are teaming up with the Upper Township Volunteer Fire Department for a Christmas toy drive.

This is the first time the two groups have partnered on a collection event, but it is certainly not the first attempt for either.

BackPack Buddies has been instrumental in providing weekend meals to more than 200 school children in need, as well as hosting food giveaways for the community. They also partnered with local schools for a toy drive last year, which provided new toys to more than 50 children at Christmas.

Upper Township VFD has also had Christmas holiday toy and food drives with other groups, which greatly improved the holidays for many children and families in Lawrence County.

With all BackPack Buddies and the fire department have accomplished in previous years it is no doubt their partnership will yield those same results.

But they still need the support of the community.

Beginning this Saturday from noon-4 p.m., donors can drop off toys at the Upper fire station at 3402 State Route 141 in Ironton. Other drop-off days will be Nov. 22, 29 and Dec. 13.

With the community’s help, many children throughout Lawrence County will have smiles on their faces come Christmas morning.