Salvation Army launches annual Toys for Tots Christmas campaign

By Toyin Obatusin - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on November 21, 2024.

The Salvation Army has begun its annual Toys for Tots initiative.

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas and community organizations are reaching out for donations to help underprivileged children and families that require a little bit of holiday support.

The Salvation Army has started its annual Toys for Tots initiative. This year, says Zachary Marshall, Community Ministries Officer, “we’re hoping to assist 500 children, which is equivalent to 100-250 families. Although there are connections with Angel Tree and Shop of Wonders, it is to ensure that families have options for support not just during the holidays, but all throughout the year.”

Families interested in applying can do so at lethbridgesalvationarmy.ca/register. People are asked to not reapply if they have already done so through their child’s place of education, MyCityCare Shop of Wonders, the Angel Tree, or YWCA Stockings of Hope.

The Salvation Army works hard to make sure that the resources donated are utilized in the best way possible. This is done by knowing the needs of their clients and advising the community of those needs.

Donations are accepted at multiple drop-off locations around the City of Lethbridge, including Canadian Tire and Walmart. New and unwrapped toys, and gift cards are highly recommended as donations.

The Lethbridge Salvation Army website says gift bundles will be organized between Dec. 9-13, and shopping appointments will be between Dec. 16-19.

Shopping appointments are made for families who want to bring their child to the Salvation Army which located at 1302 4 Ave. S. with donated funds given to the children to shop for gifts that they want.

Marshall can guarantee these gifts are fairly priced and that children will enjoy learning how to budget, price check, and make their own decisions, with a little bit of help from their guardian(s).

The Lethbridge Salvation Army is also always looking for volunteers. People can visit their website to find further information on how to connect with the organization and assist in making this another memorable holiday for those in need.