05 January 2010

The Salvation Army Northwest Division wrapped up another season helping others in need. More than 15,000 kids received Christmas presents, donors dropped $4 million into Northwest kettles and thousands ate hot meals during the holidays. At the Seattle Toy ‘N Joy event, parents of nearly 9,000 kids received toys. Qwest Exhibition Center mirrored a giant toy store where parents teamed up with volunteers who helped them shop for their children.

One young mother cried tears of joy as she chose a ride-on walking dinosaur for her 3-year-old son. “Thank you guys so much,” she said through her tears as she hugged everyone in sight. When told The Salvation Army’s here every year to provide toys should she need help in the future she replied, “I’ll be back on my feet next year and I’m going to do this for another family.” She said she plans to pay it forward.

The 2009 season marked the first time the Northwest has provided credit card machines at kettles, as another way to donate. About a dozen machines were spread throughout Washington, Idaho and Montana this year and next year more will be available. The Salvation Army could not help transform lives without the generous donors, volunteers, corporations and othe