Since 2010 continued to be financially tough for many families, some parents won't have the money to put many--or any--toys under the tree.  Several Niles organizations are collecting to make sure these kids have something for the holiday. If you can donate a toy, the following places will make sure it gets to a child who otherwise wouldn't get much this holiday. Most places prefer you bring the gift unwrapped; they will wrap it. 1) Amlings Cycle is collecting, but only until 7 a.m. Friday, when cyclists will form a caravan and bicycle 12 miles into Chicago to drop the Toys for Tots gifts off…

Whether it's called a giving tree or a coat drive, several Niles churches and nonprofits are collecting warm clothing during the holiday season. They plan to distribute the items to people short on funds to help protect against winter's bitter temperatures. Consider donating to: 1) St. John Brebeuf Church's Giving Tree.  Leo Weiss, who volunteers with the parish's St. Vincent DePaul Society, which assists the needy, said parishioners have taken wish-list ornaments off the Giving Tree. The ornaments indicate a wish from a specific needy person, such as for a sweater or coat. However, Weiss …