The Salvation Army brought a festive spirit to Northwoods Mall on Tuesday. With a toy shop and food drive, they aimed to make the holidays special for families in need. Families registered for the event were able to explore a wide range of toys for over two thousand children aged zero to 16. Volunteers and PNC worked together to assemble Christmas fund food boxes. The toys for the event were sourced from various places across Central Illinois, including participation in Toys for Tots and other local drives. Thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers, thousands of kids will have a Christmas present to wake up to, and families will be able to enjoy a Christmas meal. Peoria board advisory member Sean Cohen expressed his gratitude, stating that the Salvation Army served more people last year and emphasized the importance of showing love and providing a helping hand during times of need. "The amount of people we served this year well exceeded last year. It’s just so incredibly important to show the love of God to these people and just give them a helping hand up in this time of need. The need is more relevant this year," Cohen said. More than a thousand parents registered for the drive this year. You can stay connected with 25News by streaming LIVE on 25NewsNow.com, our 25News mobile app, and on our WEEK 25News SmartTV streaming app. Learn more about getting connected to 25News streaming live news here.

Impact of the Salvation Army's Efforts

The Salvation Army's holiday initiative had a profound impact. By providing toys and food, they not only brought joy to children but also alleviated the financial burden on families during the festive season. The wide selection of toys ensured that every child could find something special under the tree. The assembled food boxes were a lifeline for many families, ensuring they had a proper meal on Christmas Day. Volunteers played a crucial role in making this event a success, dedicating their time and effort to help those in need. Their selfless actions demonstrated the true spirit of the holiday season.

Source of Toys and Volunteers

The toys for the event came from a variety of sources. Central Illinois residents who participated in Toys for Tots and other local toy drives contributed significantly. This collaborative effort showed the power of community support in making a difference. Volunteers from different backgrounds came together to assemble the food boxes and assist families. Their diverse skills and experiences added value to the overall operation. The combined efforts of donors and volunteers made it possible to reach thousands of kids and families.

Benefits for the Community

This holiday event brought numerous benefits to the community. It strengthened the sense of community by bringing people together to support those in need. It also provided an opportunity for families to connect with each other and create lasting memories during the holidays. The Salvation Army's work inspired others to get involved and make a positive impact. By showing love and providing assistance, they set an example for the entire community. This event will have a lasting effect on the lives of those it touched and will continue to inspire others to give back in the future.