Chapman, who is the department's assistant Veteran's Affairs officer, said during the citizens’ comments section of the meeting that this year's drive benefits local veterans. "There is a need in the community to support veterans and their families as much as possible," he said. "That is what we aim to do in the Office of Veteran's Affairs in Darlington County."

The first drive had donated more than 250 toys to foster children through Darlington County Department of Social Services, Chapman said in a phone interview.

This year, the office is working with local organizations of Disabled American Veterans and Veterans of Foreign Wars to distribute toys to the families of veterans, Chapman added.

Toys may be donated at the Office of Veteran's Affairs, 1 Public Square, Room 310, in Darlington between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The last day for collection is Dec. 12. The office has been running the drive since mid-November and has collected about 50 toys at time of writing.

The office engages in community outreach by partnering with organizations such as the Darlington County Historical Commission and Museum, and the County's Library System and Sherriff's Office to "broaden its footprint in the county, so folks know we are here," Chapman said.

This story was updated Dec. 4 at 5 p.m.

Photo: The Darlington County VA office has received about 50 toys as of Dec. 4, 2025, with about one week remaining in the toy drive. (PDB2B photo/Don Fujiwara)