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Earlier this fall, Emmy Coghlan led “The Love We Share” campaign to provide toiletry items, blankets and other needed items for the Family Sunshine Center based in Montgomery, a non-profit serving the needs of communities throughout the region.

Now Emmy, who is currently being homeschooled, is spearheading a new effort. The middle schooler is inviting the local community to help make some children’s holidays brighter.

“We were just blown away by the generosity shown with ‘The Love We Share.’ We were able to deliver many health and beauty items, socks, blankets and monetary donations to the Sunshine Center. And Emmy knew she wanted to keep it going and do a toy drive for Christmas,” said Jennifer Coghlan, Emmy’s mother.

Donations of new, unwrapped toys are now being taken and can be dropped off with Danan Whiddon, proprietor of Sweet Heart Alabama in downtown Greenville.

“While we would love to be able to include gently used items, due to the COVID restrictions we are currently limited to accepting new toys only,” Coghlan explained.

The Coghlans are aiming for a mix of toys, games, stuffed animals, sports equipment and other items suitable for all age groups and both boys and girls.

“They have such a large age span with the families assisted through the program, they are truly grateful for any and all donated items, as long as they are new,” Coghlan said.

The toy drive will continue through Saturday, December 12 with plans to deliver the items to the Family Sunshine Center in Montgomery on Dec. 14.

“As Emmy’s little sister Channing says in their YouTube video, ‘Bring the toys,’” Coghlan said. “And please know you can also contact me via Facebook if you need me to pick up any items. Again, we appreciate everyone’s generosity both past and present.”