KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – There will be a brighter Christmas for hundreds of children in the area, as The Salvation Army of Kalamazoo begins its annual toy distribution Wednesday.
For over 40 years, The Salvation Army of Kalamazoo has distributed toys to families in need at Christmas time. Annually, several thousand toys are collected and then distributed near Christmas. Their distribution will continue through Friday, December 17.
Each year, area churches, schools, businesses, groups, and organizations have donated toys to help meet the demand. Over 60 organizations are participating this year. The Salvation Army of Kalamazoo will be providing Christmas Assistance to those in need in our more traditional manner this year. Volunteers and staff have set up a beautiful area and parents and guardians will be able to “shop” in person for the children in their households.
“We have been extremely blessed by the outpouring of support from our community in donating toys over the past 40 plus years”, said local corps officer at The Kalamazoo Salvation Army, Captain Ronnie Amick. “Toy Shop is one of our favorite times of the year and we love being able to put smiles on parent’s faces knowing that their children will have toys to open on Christmas day. We anticipate over 1,700 children will receive toys this year. For those families in our communities who are continuing to struggle, The Salvation Army will be there in whatever ways are needed”.
Only families who registered in advance can receive toys for their children. Additionally, each family or individual registered for holiday assistance will receive a food card allowing them to purchase food items to make their Christmas brighter.
Comments