The clock is running out on the Marine Corps Reserve's annual Toys For Tots drive, and organizers say there is a critical shortage of gifts for children ages 8 and up.

The program collected 33,000 toys for Hawai'i keiki last year, but this year has so far seen only 26,000 toys donated, with the deadline approaching next week.

Most needed are gifts for ages 8 to 10 and for youngsters 11 and older, according to statewide coordinator Gunnery Sgt. Chris Whitley of the 4th Force Reconnaissance Company at Marine Corps Base-Kane'ohe. He also said there is a shortage of gifts for girls in those age groups.

He suggested fashion items, and hair and beauty products, and said art supplies and CD players are appropriate for both genders.

For information on the dozens of Toys for Tots drop-off sites in Hawai'i, check online at www.toysfortots.org.

Among the many locations are city hall, all Bank of Hawaii branches, 24-Hour Fitness locations, Hawaiian Telcom outlets and Toys R Us at Pearlridge Center.

Whitley said Marines will begin collecting the new, unwrapped toys next week from those locations, so the earlier the toys are dropped off, the better.