In addition to shopping, many people utilize the holiday season as a time for giving.

One big way people give is through Toys for Tots. Launched by U.S. Marines in 1947, Toys for Tots collects new unwrapped toys from October to December and gives them to underprivileged children.

Through the years, this effort has inspired other organizations to do the same.

Locally, there are a few places you can drop off toys.

1. PanelClaw, a local solar energy company located at 1600 Osgood St., Suite 2023, in North Andover, is having a Toys for Tots collection. PanelClaw is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

2. The North Andover Fire Department is collecting toys for the Toys For Local Children drive. You can bring toys until Dec. 20 to either North Andover Fire Department station -- Station 1 is located at 124 Main St., right next to Town Hall, and Station 2 is at 9 Salem St. Call 978-688-9590 for more information.

3. Trombly Bros. is collecting toys for children impacted by Hurricane Sandy in cooperation with an effort by the Conference of Northeast Towing Association and Statewide Towing Association Inc. You can drop off new unwrapped toys through Dec. 12 at Trombly Bros., 141 Sutton St.

4. Merrimack Valley Martial Arts Academy is also having a Toys for Tots collection. They are located at 200 Sutton St., Toys must be dropped off by Dec. 20.

Do you know of more locations in North Andover to drop off toys for underprivileged kids? Leave a comment below and let us know!