URGENT UPDATE: The Salvation Army is in desperate need of toy donations to ensure 400 local families can celebrate Christmas this year. With only one week left before distribution begins, the organization is hundreds of toys short of its goal. The clock is ticking, and families are counting on the community for support.
At the Salvation Army Kroc Center warehouse in San Diego, toys such as basketballs, dolls, and colored markers are piled high, but the collection remains insufficient. Glynis Eckert, director of marketing for the Kroc Center, emphasized the importance of each toy, stating, “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.”
There is a critical shortage of toys for older children, a demographic often overlooked during donations. Janet Reade, the director of volunteers and community engagement, noted, “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.”
Time is running out for families who have pre-registered. Next week, parents will choose and collect toys for their children, with the Salvation Army hoping to provide each parent with three to four toys per child. Eckert stated, “We, of course, are hoping to have every parent be able to get three or four toys for their children.”
If the toy shortage continues, the Salvation Army may have to purchase toys at their own expense, resulting in a significant financial burden that could hinder their broader mission of spreading holiday joy. The organization aims to provide families with a complete Christmas experience, which includes “a sack full of toys for their children, along with gift wrap, bows, and gift tags, as well as a food box.” This ensures that families feel as though they’ve truly experienced the holiday spirit.
Donations are critically needed and can be made in person at the Kroc Center, online, or through monetary contributions. Every contribution counts towards bringing joy to families this season. Click here to donate and help make a difference.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. As the holiday approaches, the need for community support is more pressing than ever. The Salvation Army is calling on all San Diegans to step up and ensure every child has a special Christmas.
