Toy donations needed for 14,000 children in the Twin Cities
*Editor's note: This story originally stated that toys would be needed for a projected 16,500 local children. After toy registration closed Nov. 29, the total number of children is confirmed at just over 14,000.
You can help give a child a merry Christmas by donating toys to The Salvation Army or giving online.
The Salvation Army needs enough toys for more than 14,000 local children this Christmas season. Toys are especially needed for boys and girls ages 10-14.
“Many parents will struggle to afford Christmas presents for their children because of inflation and the rising costs of gas, groceries and housing,” said Lt. Col. Dan Jennings, leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division. “We kindly ask our supporters to give generously this year. Every child deserves a toy on Christmas morning.”
Donations of new, unwrapped toys are being accepted now through Friday, Dec. 9 at any Salvation Army Worship and Service Center in the Twin Cities and at The Salvation Army Northern Division Headquarters in Roseville, 2445 Prior Ave. N.
You can also donate at the following business locations participating in KSTP’s Stuff the Sleigh toy drive. Visit the Stuff the Sleigh home page for a detailed list of drop-off sites or donate online.
The Salvation Army will distribute donated toys to about 5,300 preregistered families on various days between Dec. 13-21 at our four Toy Shop locations in the Twin Cities. Families will also receive stocking stuffers and wrapping paper, with basic needs items such as clothing and hygiene products available for those who need them.
If your family is in need of toys, please call 651-746-3595 weekdays between 9 a.m.–4 p.m. now through Dec. 2.
“(Toy donors) can go with joy in their heart knowing they helped a family,” said Major Scott Shelbourn, Secretary for The Salvation Army Northern Division, in a touching KSTP story about Toy Shop. “Nobody will know, this side of heaven, the lives that they’re affecting.”