The Toys for Tots Drive is still 1,600 toys short of its need and is asking for the public's help, said Chuck Little, spokesman for the Marines, who have been collecting the toys.

Little said Toys for Tots needs about 400 toys each for boys and girls ages 8-10, and 400 toys each for boys and girls ages 11 and up.

He said the drop-off location is a warehouse on the makai side of the Dole Cannery shopping center at 650 Iwilei Road in Honolulu. The warehouse is scheduled to be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and from 8 a.m. to noon tomorrow.

The Salvation Army is organizing the distribution of the toys.

Little said the Marines have collected about 30,000 toys this year and nearly $75,000 in donations.

But he said the program needs toys that are age-appropriate to the 1,600 boys and girls who are on the list.

“;This is a case of so close yet so far. As Marines, there's nothing we hate the most than to not report, 'Mission accomplished,'”; Little said. “;We're really close to being able to meet the needs.”;

Little said the Marines know how difficult this year has been economically and appreciates people giving so much.

“;It's heartwarming,”; he said. “;The Marine Corps is deeply grateful to everyone who donated.”;