KidzPlex is teaming up with Operation Christmas Child to make sure children in need have toys this holiday season.

The local gymnasium and child-care provider is helping fill shoe boxes with toys to provide gifts for children around the world.

Families are encouraged to fill a shoe box with non-perishable items such as toys, school supplies, toiletries and hard candies.

They ask that you not put liquids or war toys in the shoe boxes.

The toy drive takes place on Friday, October 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at KidzPlex, located at 609 25 Road in Grand Junction.

The boxes will be organized and hand-delivered to children worldwide using whatever means necessary, according to KidzPlex management.

They say many of these children would never have an opportunity to receive such a gift.

For each box delivered, KidzPlex will give one free entry to the Fun Factory.

The Fun Factory is an indoor soft playground featuring climbing walls, mirror mazes, a cargo net, tunnels and more.

If you want to help make a child happier this holiday season, fill up a shoe box and come down to KidzPlex Thursday night.