THE SALVATION ARMY PREPARES TO SERVE INCREASED NEEDS THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON
CLEVELAND, OH (December 5th, 2023) – The Salvation Army urgently prepares for its upcoming Christmas distributions to provide toys and food to pre-registered families throughout Cuyahoga County. This year, the needs throughout the county have exceeded what was initially forecasted. The Salvation Army reports they plan to serve close to 6,000 children with toys this Christmas. This is a 50% increase over the last three years, with difficult economic uncertainty.
“The needs have truly never been greater in Cuyahoga County. From inflation to stagnant wages, everyone needs a little help sometimes, so we are here. Our goal at The Salvation Army is to help as many families as possible, especially during the Christmas season,” stated Captain Joel Ashcraft, Divisional Secretary of The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland.
The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland launched a Toy Drive campaign for the community, local corporations, and organizations. The projection for this drive was 10,000 toys to support 5,000 children. With the increase in needs, The Salvation Army is looking for Clevelanders to rally to help support these increased needs.
Ways to support:
- Donate A Toy at SalvationArmyCleveland.org that will be delivered directly to The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland
- Drop off a new/unwrapped toy to The Salvation Army 2507 E. 22nd St. Cleveland, OH 44115
- Make A Monetary Donation at SalvationArmyCleveland.org
- Donate outside your favorite retailer at the iconic Red Kettle’s
The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland, which includes five Corps Community Centers throughout Cuyahoga County, has seen this significant increase in 2,000 children needing assistance. One of their locations in particular, The Salvation Army in Miles Park, has seen a 115% increase in sign-ups.
“Our Corps is preparing to distribute 1,400 bags of toys for children on December 15th and December 16th. We hope that this event and support will continue to show this community in need that The Salvation Army in Cleveland Miles Park can be a beacon of hope for their families,” said Captain Steven Thomas, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army in Cleveland Miles Park.
To donate to assist The Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland in serving families this holiday season, or for more information, call (216) 861-8185.