The Salvation Army
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army will distributing gifts of Christmas Monday, December 18 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Each year The Salvation Army gives the gift of toys, food and blankets to residents of Reno County. This year 1054 children will receive toys and more than 800 families will receive a Christmas food box and new blankets. Of course, The Salvation Army can not do this on their own and has been blessed by the generosity of so many individuals, businesses, organizations, and angels in our midst.
Dillons is a huge part of making it possible to provide food for the 1100 boxes that will be shared. They also help with food drives in front of their stores making it possible for special people in the community to take part in helping their neighbors. “Without the help of everyone in our community, it isn’t possible to help those in need this season. It literally takes everyone pitching in that’s able to give of their time and resources”, said Major Paul James.
When looking at all the toys needed, there are so many groups and businesses who take part and need our thanks. The Angel Tree at Walmart is one of the largest pieces to help get toys for every child from 0-12 years old. This allows parents the opportunity to share a wish list for businesses and people in the community to adopt a child or several children. There’s also the Reno County Toy Run that makes up a large portion of the toys we need along with Toys 4 Tots who collects toys for different groups. Major James said, “It’s so humbling and encouraging to see people’s generosity when it comes to making sure children receive a gift. Many times, it is parents who have relied on assistance in the past. There’s a lot of pride for a family to be able to give back by blessing someone else in need when they’ve been helped in the past.”
The Salvation Army still needs help to reach their operating budget goals this season. With 6 days to go, with Saturday being their last day, they still need $19,043 for their Red Kettle goal, and $220,000 for their overall goal which ends on January 31. Major James said, “There’s been a lot of confusion with our appeal letters that have gone out. Though the return address says Iowa, it is going to a territory wide processing location and the money gets deposited into our Reno County account.” You may mail your donation or drop it off at their local office at 700 N Walnut Hutchinson, KS 67501. It’s not too late for year-end gifts as well.
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