Salvation Army Urgently Needs Toys for 400 Families This Christmas

URGENT UPDATE: The Salvation Army is in desperate need of toy donations to ensure 400 local families can enjoy a special Christmas this year. With just one week remaining before toy distribution begins, the organization is currently hundreds of toys short of its goal.

Inside the Salvation Army Kroc Center warehouse in San Diego, toys like basketballs, dolls, and markers are piled high, but they still do not meet the overwhelming demand. Glynis Eckert, the director of marketing for the Kroc Center, emphasized the urgency, stating, “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.”

The organization is particularly lacking toys for older children, which is a significant concern. Janet Reade, the director of volunteers and community engagement, noted, “The age groups that we get the most donations for tend to be younger children, but our pre-selected families can register their children of all ages: 0 all the way up to 12.”

Time is running out. Next week, parents from a pre-registered list will collect toys for their children. The Salvation Army aims to provide each parent with three or four toys per child. Eckert stated, “We, of course, are hoping to have every parent be able to get three or four toys for their children.”

If the shortage continues, the Salvation Army may face financial strain as they may need to purchase toys out of pocket, diverting funds from their broader mission of spreading holiday joy. The organization is committed to providing families with a complete Christmas experience, including a sack full of toys, gift wrap, bows, and food boxes.

“When they go home, and they’re wrapping all their toys for their family, they feel like they’ve had the Christmas experience,” Eckert added.

Donations can be made in person at the Kroc Center, online, or through monetary contributions. Every toy counts in making a difference for these families this holiday season. Click here to donate.

Help ensure that every child has a joyful Christmas by contributing to this urgent cause. The time to act is NOW!