17 December 2010

This holiday season, The Salvation Army Tacoma Corps continues its tradition of providing food and gifts to those in need. The recent economic conditions have impacted our community members, and more families than ever are struggling to make ends meet. "We are seeing an 18% increase in people seeking our help this year over last year," said Major Warren Dabis, Commanding Officer of The Salvation Army Tacoma Corps.

The Salvation Army hopes to brighten the lives of children next week during the annual Pierce County Toy ‘n' Joy Event. Unfortunately the toys collected are still not enough. Donations for all ages are still needed (infant to age 17), with special needs for kids age 10-12 (toys) and teens 13-17 (gift cards). Donations of unwrapped new toys or cash can be dropped off at Salvation Army Tacoma Corps, 6201 South Tacoma Way. Or, call the Corps at 253-572-8452 Extension 112.

For several decades, The Salvation Army staff and hundreds of volunteers have transformed Toy ‘n' Joy locations into a giant toy store, with gifts organized by age. On the designated "shopping day," registered parents walk through with a personal shopper and select gifts for their children.

The new toys have been collected for the past month throughout Pierce County. Bartell Drugs Stores and Fred Meyer Stores have both led toy drives in local stores, where employees and shoppers have filled countless bins with new toys. Additionally, generous members of local companies and families have held private toy drives to support the program. All toys collected have been inventoried by The Salvation Army staff and will be distributed to needy families in the Pierce County community. State and Federal guidelines determine the level of income that qualifies a family for the program. Families wishing to receive Christmas assistance (toys or food) should be pre-registered through the Salvation Army. A limited number of registrations are still available at the Tacoma Corps, 6201 South Tacoma Way.

Volunteers are also needed to help facilitate the various holiday programs. Individuals or groups interested in volunteering should call 253-572-8452, ext. 112.

*    Distribute Christmas food boxes and toys to needy families and children,

*    Operate the gift wrap station at Tacoma Mall, or the Giving Tree at Tacoma Mall.

*    Ring bells at various Red Kettle sites throughout Pierce County.

Media Contact: 

Lora Marini Baker, Community Relations Director

The Salvation Army Northwest Divisional Headquarters

Lora.Marini.Baker@usw.salvationarmy.org