Similar to Santa’s Elves, merchants in downtown Mount Airy are lending a helping hand to area children and families by taking part in the annual Christmas fund of the Surry County Sheriff’s Office.

Those who contribute cash or toys to businesses involved in the campaign will receive chances to win $300 in “downtown dollars,” according to Brandt Scholz, the president of the Downtown Business Association (DBA).

“People can make cash donations or they can donate new, unwrapped toys at participating downtown stores,” Scholz said Monday.

Scholz, who is associated with B & L Custom Jewelers, said stores that are in the DBA generally display stickers on their doors indicating membership in the promotional organization for the central business district. “The large majority are members,” he added of downtown businesses.

The DBA effort represents the first time that the sheriff’s office has teamed with such an agency to stockpile toys, according to Scholz. Sheriff’s personnel have collected money to buy presents for needy children and food for families for more than 15 years.

Scholz added that the financial hardships faced by many county residents this holiday season prompted the downtown group to assist the sheriff’s office.

“The goal is for all the children to have a wonderful Christmas,” the DBA president said. “In these economic times, there are a lot of people having trouble getting food on the table, let alone buying toys for kids.”

The downtown effort began around Nov. 1 and the collection of toys and money will continue until Dec. 10. Those who opt to give money instead of a new, unwrapped toy are asked to contribute in the form of a check made payable to the Surry County Sheriff’s Office.

Those who support the drive will have the chance to earn 300 downtown dollars through a drawing scheduled on Dec. 19. That prize can be redeemed from any DBA member, Scholz said.

Sheriff’s office personnel will use money amassed through the overall campaign to buy gifts and food in mid-December. They will be using a list, without names, containing specific gifts needed.

The limit is $100 for each child, with 100 percent of the donations to be used for purchases of items that children want and need.

Anyone with questions about the DBA’s participation can call Scholz at 786-1100 or the Downtown Business Association office at 786-4511.

Contact Tom Joyce at tjoyce@mtairynews.com or at 719-1924.