James Scardami, a retired Marine, has been leading Matagorda County’s Toys for Tots drive for seven years, bringing Christmas cheer to local children in need. This year, over 1,100 kids are signed up for gifts, with more expected, making it the busiest season yet. Scardami launched the program after noticing a gap in the area’s support for children and has since relied on donations and volunteers to make it a success. Donations are accepted until Christmas Eve at his Edward Jones office in Bay City.