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Salvation Army hosts toy drive for DYS
The NMI Salvation Army has extended its Christmas cheer to the Division of Youth Services by starting a toy drive on behalf of the program’s children.
The Salvation Army hosts a toy drive every year.
Ministry leader Pastor Wayne Gillespie said, “Some of these kids think that no one loves them around this time of year. This is just to make sure they get some toys.”
The Salvation Army is asking for donations of unwrapped toys for children ranging from infants to 18 years of old. Puzzles, books, dolls, balls, and games with books are especially desired.
For those wishing to donate, the drop-off location is at the Bank of Hawaii’s branch at Springs Plaza in Gualo Rai. Within the building should be a Christmas tree along with a box designated solely for toys. If a person does not have the time to buy toys or does not possess one, the Salvation Army also welcomes cash donations for this year’s toy drive.
“Usually at the final week or day, we realize we don’t have enough toys for a specific age group or gender. That is why cash is useful so we can just run down to the nearest store and buy a gift,” Gillespie said.
About a 100 kids from DYS are expected to receive gifts from the Salvation Army.
“We think this fundraiser holds a tremendous amount of importance. Oftentimes, this may be the only Christmas gift they’ll receive,” said Gillespie.
Also happening during the Christmas month is the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle program at the Joeten Superstore. The idea would be for passing customers who wish to donate to simply drop cash into the kettle. All proceeds go to the general operations of the organization such as the toy drive or its Thanksgiving celebration.
