GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Toys have changed in the past 42 years, but the need remains the same.

More than 1,000 children from Clay County will find toys under the tree because the J.P. Hall Children’s Charities Christmas Party has been committed for more than four decades to spreading joy as long as people are in need.

The drive-through giveaway in the Cattleman’s Arena at the Clay County Fairgrounds starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16. Hundreds will get there hours in advance because it may be the only toys children will get. A year ago, the first car rolled into the parking lot at 5 p.m. Friday – 16 hours before children were greeted with a new stuffed animal and a wave from Santa Claus.

“We’ve had a ton of calls this year,” said charity Chairman and Executive Director Virginia Hall. “We’re expecting a big crowd.”

The only requirements to receive a bag of toys are that children must be from Clay County and only children in the car can receive gifts. There is no paperwork. Toys are divided by age and gender. Before the family leaves, children can pick out one of nearly 800 refurbished bicycles delivered by a group of volunteers led by Richard Knoff in Green Cove Springs and The James Boys from Orange Park. Bikes will be given away on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Hall said the organization will collect new, unwrapped toys and monetary donations until the party starts.

“We’re expecting big crowds, and it’s always harder to find toys and get donations for the older kids,” Hall said. “Everyone always wants to do stuff for the little kids, but it’s a little more challenging for children 10-to-14. They need stuff, too.”

She said games, sports equipment, LEGO blocks are popular with older children.

Hall is a fourth-generation resident of the county. Her grandfather created the charity, which is a family affair. Hall said she’s handing over many duties to her sons, J.P., Matthew and Grant.

“I’ll still be there,” she said, “but I’ve been slowly turning over the reigns to my children to lead the efforts, especially J.P. and Matthew, the two oldest. They’re doing a great job. I’m very proud of them.”

In a perfect world, the Halls would like to believe nobody needs a helping hand. But as long as there are children who may do without, they will be there.