URGENT UPDATE: The Salvation Army is in critical need of 500 toy donations to ensure that 400 local families in San Diego can celebrate a joyful Christmas this year. With just one week remaining before distribution begins, the organization is falling drastically short of its goal.
Inside the Salvation Army Kroc Center warehouse, toys like basketballs, dolls, and colored markers are piled high, but the collection is still insufficient. “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,” said Glynis Eckert, director of marketing for the Kroc Center.
The organization is facing a significant toy shortage, particularly 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: 0 all the way up to 12,” stated Janet Reade, director of volunteers and community engagement.
The clock is ticking. Next week, parents from a pre-registered list will select and collect toys for their children. The Salvation Army aims to provide each parent with three or four toys per child. “We hope to have every parent be able to get three or four toys for their children,” Eckert added.
If the toy shortage persists, the Salvation Army may have to purchase toys out of pocket, creating a daunting financial burden that could hinder its broader mission of spreading holiday cheer. The organization strives to provide families with a complete Christmas experience, which includes not just toys but also gift wrap, bows, gift tags, and food boxes.
“When they go home and wrap all their toys for their family, they feel like they’ve had the Christmas experience,” Eckert emphasized.
Donations can be made in person at the Kroc Center, online, or through monetary contributions. Time is of the essence—help ensure that every child has a merry Christmas. Click here to donate.
This is a critical moment for the Salvation Army, and every toy donation counts. Share this urgent appeal to help spread the word!
