If Santa Claus had been portrayed as a woman the image would look something like Ella Green. ...more

December 24, 2009

A storm whipped through the Tampa Bay area on Dec. 5, and the annual Letter Carriers' Toy Drive, which typically accounts for at least half of the gifts distributed to families in need by Toys for Tots, wasn't as fruitful as in past years. ...more

December 18, 2009

There are several toy drives going on across the county with one thing in mind - that children in need can get at least one toy at Christmas. ...more

December 15, 2009

Hillsborough County deputies are helping Santa by collecting new toys and gift cards to make this holiday special for poor children. ...more

December 11, 2009

If Santa Claus had been portrayed as a woman the image would look something like Ella Green. She's a white-haired, elfin little figure, an 83-year-old with a melodic German accent that offers kind words for everyone, delivered with a twinkle in her one good eye. She lost the other one 10 years ago - or was it 20? She hasn't kept track. ...more

December 5, 2009

Anyone donating a toy at a select group of auto repair shops this year will walk away with more than just a warm feeling. ...more

November 4, 2009

Anyone donating a toy at a select group of auto repair shops this year will walk away with more than just a warm feeling. ...more

November 4, 2009

The Family Readiness Group for the local Bravo Battery National Guard unit in Avon Park is launching its second annual toy drive for the upcoming Christmas holiday. ...more

November 2, 2009

The new year of 2009 is here. Last year at Manna saw a substantial increase in the number of families served, a new director and physical building changes. The one obvious fact that we are still open means that God is still blessing us. He blesses us through our wonderful donors. You have given generously of food, clothing, household goods and funds. I would like to say thank you. There have been many sad, wonderful and amazing things happen at Manna this year. Some I have shared with you, others God knows about. Recently I had a lady come in asking for help. Her husband's unemployment had run out, she had been laid off from her job and the prospects of Christmas for her three children were slim. She came to us too late for the Toy Store at the church, all the toys were gone. ...more

January 3, 2009

Deputy Michelle Branscomb has organized the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's District III toy drive for 13 years. And on Dec. 20 she was able to give toys to 310 children, many delivered by her personally to their homes. ...more

December 31, 2008