Brick Schools Make Christmas Merry For 160 Families

However, what will make the biggest impact to push through to the finish line are monetary donations.

“All we can do is thank her from the bottom of our hearts and wish her well for being so kind to help us help others”, Durant said.

Over the weekend, the Salvation Army says 300 angels were not returned, meaning 300 kids would not have received gifts. #8, Immokalee, from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. From Thursday through Saturday, families can pick up their toys from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.at the Salvation Army facility on Tamiami Trail East in Naples.

While most of the spots to man the kettles have been filled, for those interested in volunteering are urged to call The Salvation Army at 403-823-2215 and get their name on the list.

He said Wednesday’s success was made possible by individual donors and the annual kettle drive.

“We urge island residents and communities to step up and support our statewide Angel Trees and Red Kettles with heartfelt donations to help sustain key social service programs”, said Major John Chamness, Divisional Leader for The Salvation Army Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division.

This year, 145 families signed up to receive toys and another 45 signed up for food only.

Over the years, the Salvation Army in Miami-Dade County has been given pricey donations, like emerald and diamond necklaces, donated last December.

Once the festivities begin, 40 families an hour will come through, greeted by the sound of Christmas carols and the warm welcomes of Salvation Army employees and volunteers.

“If we get people to cover the locations, we’ll be in good shape”, he said.

“For our programs to continue, we need help financially to make that happen”, says Salvation Army Lieutenant Terri Olson.

The money helps fund programs such as an emergency shelter in Santa Ana, youth centers in Tustin and Anaheim, and those that assist families in need. “The quality and the helpfulness that they give us is awesome”.