Salvation Army's Toy Shop putting smiles on parents' faces

YOUNGSTOWN

Parents and grandparents who otherwise couldn’t afford to put presents under the Christmas tree for the children in their families left the Salvation Army with bags of toys sure to put smiles on the faces of those kids.

Those happy shoppers participated today in the Mahoning County Salvation Army’s Christmas Toy Shop toy and food voucher distribution in the Austintown Plaza that will continue through Friday.

“I like it a lot,” said Elizabeth Crespo of Youngstown of the Christmas Toy Shop.

She found presents for her daughter and son and her unborn son, who is due Thursday. “They will love it,” she said.

The Salvation Army helps a lot with food bags and meals, said Crespo, who attends church at the Salvation Army’s Hispanic services.

About 3,000 pre-registered needy children will receive Christmas toys and clothes, and about 1,500 needy families, individuals, men, women and the elderly will receive Christmas food vouchers that can be used at selected grocery stores.

Only people who are pre-registered can come this week, said Maj. Valerie Kahn, associate Mahoning County Salvation area coordinator.

If they miss their scheduled appointment, people can call the SA at 330-746-8405 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and arrangements will be made, she said.

“It is our prayer the gifts and food vouchers will help bring relief to brighten the lives of those in need during this wonderful season of peace and joy,” Kahn said.

Read more about the giveaway in Wednesday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.