The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, which means the season for giving has arrived.

Many organizations across the Brazos Valley are kicking off their charitable donations drive, including Candy 95, a local radio station that has kicked off their annual Christmas Angel drive.

The station has received a record 500 names of local children whose family might not be able to afford holiday gifts. Along with those names they received a few gifts that child is hoping to get, which range from items like clothes to bikes and toys.

And though economic troubles may have tightened some Christmas budgets of those that normally donate during the holiday season, the station is hoping that they can get all of the children the presents they want this year.

"It doesn't cost a whole lot to help out a child in need during Christmas. It's just an extra present under the tree that you can give to someone else. It's something we think is really important. Because we know Christmas is about the kids,” said Alli, a morning DJ with the station.

The station will be accepting presents for the children through December 12, or will also be accepting monetary donations of any amount to buy the gifts for those shoppers that may be strapped for time.

The list of children, along with their wish lists, can be found on the Candy 95 Christmas Angel Tree located at both Blue Baker restaurants in College Station.