URGENT UPDATE: The Salvation Army is in desperate need of toy donations to ensure 400 local families can celebrate a joyful Christmas this year. With only one week left before distribution begins, the organization is hundreds of toys short of its goal.
Inside the Salvation Army Kroc Center in San Diego, toys including basketballs, dolls, and markers are accumulating, but they still fall significantly short of what is needed for all children. Glynis Eckert, the director of marketing at the Kroc Center, emphasized the urgency, stating, “We are hoping to have every parent be able to get three or four toys for their children.”
The organization reports a critical shortage, especially for older children. “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, from 0 to 12,” said Janet Reade, director of volunteers and community engagement.
Time is running out for these families. Next week, parents from a pre-registered list will select toys for their children. If the Salvation Army cannot meet the demand, it may have to purchase toys out of pocket, imposing a severe financial strain that could hinder its broader mission of spreading holiday joy.
The organization aims to provide not just toys, but a complete Christmas experience, including gift wrap, bows, tags, and food boxes. “When they go home and wrap all their toys, we want them to feel they’ve had the Christmas experience,” Eckert added.
People can contribute by donating toys in person at the Kroc Center, online, or through monetary contributions. The need is immediate, and every donation counts in making this holiday season special for families in need. Click here to donate.
As the deadline approaches, the community’s response will determine how many families can experience the joy of Christmas this year. The Salvation Army continues to appeal for support to ensure no child goes without a gift this holiday season.
