PLAINVILLE, Conn. -- Tough times in the economy may leave hundreds of Connecticut families without holiday gifts this eason.

The Toys For Tots program is in desperate need of donations. Program officials said that a lot of people who usually give unwrapped toys this year aren't making donations.

The Plainville Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots program is 40,000 toys short of its goal this year.

Staff Sgt. James Battisti said that the economy is to blame, and that the bad economy is making the need even greater this year.

"I've actually gone on Christmas Eve … it's such a gratifying feeling knowing I made someone's Christmas, just like it is for all the guys who work here," he said. "We're not asking for bikes or PlayStations. Something like a Cabbage Patch Kid doll -- now that you can buy for $15."

Battisti said that in the six years he's been involved with the program, this is the first year he's faced the possibility of not meeting the goal.

He said that the emptiest bin at the center is for kids ages 12 and up.

Battisti said the problem isn't only affecting Connecticut. He said he has a brother in Michigan who said that they are experiencing a shortage as well.

To make a donation, bring an unwrapped toy to one of the state's 200 drop-off sites. For a full list of drop-off locations, visit the organization's Web site.