Cherokee County Lodge No. 20 of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) is hoping to bring the Christmas spirit to those less fortunate.

FOP is asking local merchants and residents for either monetary donations or gifts of new toys. The organization will not be conducting phone solicitations for the annual fundraising campaign because of an increase in telephone scams, especially during the holiday season.

Fifteen children received numerous gifts during last year’s FOP Shop With A Cop for Christmas program.

“I’d like to at least meet that number this year,” said FOP Secretary/Treasurer Leigh Caldwell.

The funds collected are also used to distribute food boxes to the elderly and needy.

Tax-deductible financial gifts can be dropped off at the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. or mailed to the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 20, 321 E. Frederick St., Gaffney, S.C., 29340.

Anyone interested in making a contribution can contact Caldwell at (864) 489-4722, ext. 113.

Receipts are available for tax purposes.