Photo: WHO 13
(Clive, IA) -- The Salvation Army in Des Moines is trying to gather thousands of new Christmas toys for needy children in the area. Tamyra Harrison of the Salvation Army tells WHO Radio News last year 750-families signed up for toy distribution, but this year they've had 850-families register. She says they're estimating 1,700 children on the list and they are way behind on collections.
Donors can help by dropping off a new toy at the Salvation Army office on 100th Street in Clive or by ordering a gift via the Walmart gift registry (the gift will remain in the local community). She also recommends donors look for the Salvation Army Angel trees at Walmart, at Jordan Creek Towne Center, and at Merle Hay Mall. The trees are decorated with tags that contain gift ideas.
Harrison says they are most in need of toys for 6-to-10 year old children. She says gift cards ideal for pre-teens.
She says the average cost of a donated gift is around $10.
Their toys will be distributed in mid-December to families who have signed up for the program.