Let the holidaySHOPpingseason begin.

West Virginia University Student Organization Services and the Student Government Association have partnered with the Salvation Army, WAJR , U92 and The Daily Athenaeum to provide toys and new clothes for local disadvantaged children through the SHOP (Students Helping Other People) program.

Donations will enable WVU students to take local kids on a shopping trip Saturday, Dec. 10, to Super Kmart.

Community members can get involved by dropping off cash or checks (made out to SHOP ) and unwrapped toys at the Dec. 3 WVU -Washington&Jefferson basketball game at the WVU Coliseum or Student Organization Services Office in the Mountainlair through the first week of December.

A collection bin will also be set up at the Student Recreation Center Dec. 3-10. Anyone who donates a toy valued at $5 or more will get free access to the facility on the day the item is donated.

In addition, checks may be mailed to: SHOP , Student Organization Services, Mountainlair, West Virginia University, P.O. Box 6444, Morgantown, WV 26506 -6444.

This is a WVU and Morgantown tradition that keeps growing thanks to the generosity of the community, particularly WVU student organizations, faculty and staff,Assistant Dean of Students Ron Justice said.

With everything going on in the world, we realize this may be a tough year for giving,he added.Any donation, large or small, is appreciated. We encourage people to bring a toy or collect as a department.

Last year, Student Organization Services raised more than $8,000, according to coordinator Kaylee Wilson, who has worked with the program for three years.

This has to be one of the most enjoyable community service projects for all involved,she said.I cannot put into words what it feels like to see the faces of the children who we take shopping. It is absolutely priceless. I never feel better than leaving the Mountainlair on that Saturday before finals because I can see how weve touched the lives of so many children.

Student Organization Services will also be building its annualToy Mountainthe week of Dec. 5 in the Mountainlair food court. At 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, WVU President David C. Hardesty Jr. will join students as they present the toys to the Salvation Army.

For more information, call 304-293-4397.