Salvation Army Urgently Seeks 400 Toys for Local Families
URGENT UPDATE: The Salvation Army is in desperate need of toy donations to ensure 400 families can celebrate Christmas this year. With just one week left before distribution begins, the organization is still hundreds of toys short of its goal.
At the Salvation Army Kroc Center warehouse in San Diego, various toys such as basketballs, colored markers, and dolls are piled high, but the collection remains insufficient.
“Even like a Barbie house, this is something that we’ll put aside specifically for a family that maybe we know had a bit extra difficult time this year,”
said Glynis Eckert, the director of marketing for the Kroc Center.
The organization is particularly facing a shortage for older children, as donations primarily come in for younger age groups. Janet Reade, director of volunteers and community engagement, emphasized the need for toys for children aged 0 to 12. “We are looking for toys for those older age groups,” she stated.
Time is running out. Next week, parents from a pre-registered list will choose and collect toys for their children. The Salvation Army aims to provide each parent with three to four toys per child.
“We, of course, are hoping to have every parent be able to get three or four toys for their children,”
Eckert added.
If the toy shortage continues, the organization may have to purchase toys out of pocket, which could significantly impact its mission of spreading holiday joy. The Salvation Army intends to provide families with a complete Christmas experience, including a sack full of toys, gift wrapping supplies, and a food box.
“When they go home, and they’re wrapping all their toys for their family, they feel like they’ve had the Christmas experience,”
Eckert explained.
Donations can be made in person at the Kroc Center, online, or through monetary contributions. Each donation counts and can help ensure that every child experiences the joy of Christmas this year.
For more information on how to donate, click here. The clock is ticking, and the Salvation Army needs your help to bring holiday cheer to local families!
