MEXICO — Although the Free Store will close at the end of the year, Santa’s Helpers, which operates out of the Roxbury Road building, will continue at a new location in 2014, an official said.

Margaret McNeal, who has carried on her mother’s legacy by running Santa’s Helpers for the past five years, said the final details are still being worked out, but a plan is developing so the beloved Christmas program can continue.

Santa’s Helpers was started by Dot Sanchas in the late 1970s and provides new clothing and toys to deserving children and their parents each Christmas. Last year, more than 400 children and a couple hundred families were served, she said.

The expense of maintaining the building, donated to the nonprofit in 2000, was a major factor in her decision to close the Free Store, McNeal said. The store opened five years ago to provide used clothing, household items and other goods free to those in need, she said.

Santa’s Helpers, a nonprofit organization, owns the building. It will be used by another nonprofit, McNeal said.

Santa’s Helpers will relocate, she said, but details about where are yet to be announced.

Meanwhile, Santa’s Helpers is still accepting donations and applications right up until Christmas Eve, she said. Qualified people must have their MaineCare cards when they apply.

A big need this year is toys for children up to 12 years old, McNeal said.

“And a lot of moms are asking for boots again this year. No matter what size for boys or girls, we will use them,” she said.

For information and donations, contact McNeal at 357-8772.