Give a toy, get an oil change

BRANDON - We all know the saying -- it's better to give than to receive. This year, some Bay Area auto shops are allowing you do to both.

"If you bring in a toy that is valued at $25 or more, then you will get a free lube, oil and filter change," explained Harry Clark, one of the owners of Olin Mott Tire Service in Brandon.

The Marines have placed Toys for Tots boxes at more than 50 NAPA Auto Part stores throughout Tampa. And now, to encourage you to donate, some auto shops like the Olin Mott shop in Brandon are offering an incentive.

"The value is well worth what you're going to be paying for the contribution," Clark continued.

With a tough economy, not everyone may be able to give to local charities this year. But local auto shops say everyone needs an oil change now and then.

This way, you can do both.

"This is just kind of a special contribution from us and a way we can give back to our community," Clark added.

Brandon's Olin Mott Tire Service isn't the only auto shop participating; there are several throughout the Bay Area. And now that word is spreading, other businesses are picking up on the idea.

Organizers say this is a first, but could become a yearly tradition. The bottom line -- it's about bringing in more toys for our Bay Area tots.

"It's a great organization," Clark offered. "The cause is a great cause."

So before you have someone check under the hood or get those tires rotated, think about making a pit stop to a local toy store. It will benefit you, your car, and a child in need.

To learn more about Tampa Bay Toys for Tots, click on over to their website .

List of participating stores:

Brandon Tire and Auto Service Center
2514 E. State Road 60 in Valrico

Olin Mott Tire Service Center
528 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon

Laver Auto Service
14108 Dr. Martin Luther Kind Jr. Blvd. in Dover