Local politicians and beach-area lifeguards gathered Dec. 12 to kick off the city’s annual campaign to aid the Toys for Tots program. At the Pacific Beach lifeguard station, District 2 City Councilman Kevin Faulconer and District 1 City Councilwoman Sherri Lightner were flanked by lifeguard representatives to announce that San Diegans can make a donation to the Toys for Tots program by dropping off donations at any beach-area lifeguard station. Joining the councilmembers were San Diego Lifeguard Services Sgt. Ed Harris, San Diego firefighter/Marine Corps reservist Bill Waugaman and San Diego Lifesaving Association representative Jeff Hatfield. Together, the speakers called on locals to help a family in need this holiday and, in turn, be treated to a brief tour of the stations. “We’re asking San Diegans to do what they do best — visit our beaches and bays — and bring with them a new, unwrapped toy for a child,” said Faulconer. “The Toys for Tots lifeguard donation drive is a great way to celebrate our beach culture as well as the holidays.” Lightner also called on neighbors to catch the holiday spirit.  “Bring your children to the beach and have them bring a gift for a child who isn’t so fortunate,” said Lightner. “It will make the visit that much more memorable while honoring the spirit of the season.”  Donated toys will be distributed as Christmas gifts to needy children in the San Diego area. City officials said checks in any amount are also accepted. All donations are tax-deductible. The U.S. Marine Corps Reserves has been collecting Christmas toys for children through the Toys for Tots program since 1947. Donated toys can be dropped off at the Ocean Beach lifeguard stations, among others. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org.