Auburn's Action Tattoo is feeling that Christmas spirit again.

The second installment of the store's toy drive is under way.

"Last year we had close to 400 presents and we helped dozens of families," said business owner Rich White.

Started by shop piercer Chris Johnson in response to the consumer greed he saw on Black Friday last year, the drive is a partnership with the Christian Crusader motorcycle club, which will distribute about half of the toys collected. The shop will distribute the other half.

"We do a little investigating in finding families," he said. "We try and avoid the people who just come in with their hands out who have a list of every church, every place to go to for free stuff. We find out who really needs the gifts through our contacts."

The store is collecting new, unwrapped toys for boys and girls all ages from now until a week before Christmas.

White and Johnson urge prospective donors to consider gifts for teenage boys and girls, as well as stuff for the younger kids.

"Last year there was an overabundance of little boy toys," White said. "But we'll take anything they're ready to buy."

Gifts can be dropped off at the store, 416 E. Main St., Auburn.

White added that a raffle ticket for free tattooing or piercing will be given out for every $10 in gifts donated.

"A lot of people use the toy giving to gain business and popularity," White said. "We use our popularity and business to gain toys and legitimately help people. It's true that it's really better to give than receive. Even Chris, who normally hates this time of year, was feeling the spirit last year."

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