The Red Stocking Fund has put out an urgent appeal to the Martha’s Vineyard community for toys. The fund has received a record number of qualifying applications, with well over 400 children in genuine need this holiday season.

Organizers are asking anyone in a position to donate to bring toys to the Edgartown and Oak Bluffs Schools, or to Grace Church on Woodlawn avenue in Vineyard Haven, between now and Wednesday; arrangements also can be made to have new toys picked up.

Suggestions are: dolls for all ages (even under six months), action figures, games, puzzles, bakugan, skateboards (Wal-Mart may have one for under $12), balls of all sorts (inexpensive, plastic lightweight balls for young kids; footballs; soccer balls; baseballs, baseball gloves or bats; makeup kits; inexpensive jewelry; gift certificates to local stores (Aboveground Records, health clubs); CDs; books for all ages; arts and crafts; Easy-Bake ovens; and bikes.

Even gently-used bikes (not a lot of rust and no torn seats) can be put to good use! “Really anything for kids aged newborn to age 14, boys and girls,” according to their appeal.

Financial donations earmarked for toys also would be put to good use.