Bartell Drugs collecting toys for the Salvation Army through Dec. 11

Bartell Drugs is once again partnering with the Salvation Army to provide holiday gifts to children in need by collecting new, unwrapped toys during its 8th annual Salvation Army "Toy 'N' Joy" drive through December 11, 2011.

Toys collected at all 58 Bartell Drugs locations will be distributed to low-income children and youth the week before Christmas through the Salvation Army's "toy warehouses."

"The need this year is especially great. While you're out doing your holiday shopping, pick up a toy for the "Toy 'N' Joy" drive to make the holiday season brighter for deserving children," said George D. Bartell, Chairman and CEO of Seattle-based Bartell Drugs. "The generosity and support of our customers over the past seven years has been gratifying."

A number of donation options are available at Bartell stores, including:

• Choose a "gift request tag" from the "Toy 'N' Joy" display in the store and return the gift to the donation barrel with the tag affixed to it.
• Donate new, unwrapped gifts appropriate for children up to 17 years-of-age.

Founded in Seattle in 1890, Bartell Drugs owns stores in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties. Family-owned and operated, it is the nation's oldest drugstore chain.