Salvation Army Accepts Applications for Christmas Toy Assistance

BRADENTON -- With the Christmas season fast approaching The Salvation Army, Manatee County is busy at work preparing to assist those in need.  The first step in planning for the 2010 season comes through the Angel Tree Program.  Applications for Christmas toy assistance will be accepted from Monday, October 4, 2010 through Thursday, October 7, 2010 from 9am to 2:30pm at The Salvation Army Center for Worship and Service, 5328 24th St. East, off SR 70.  

This year The Salvation Army is preparing to assist 2,500 children up to the age of 12 years with toys under the Christmas tree.  ”We know the need will be much greater this year than the last few years“, says Major Alma Gower, Angel Tree coordinator.  ”We are doing whatever we can to ensure we can fill that need“.
    
Applications for Christmas toy assistance will be taken on a first come, first serve basis and are based on eligibility.  All applicants are required to bring photo ID, Social Security cards for all members of the household, birth certificates for every child in the household and proof of income, which can include pay stubs, food stamp eligibility certificate, etc.  Applicants are asked not to bring children to the registration process.  

Once applications are complete and 2,500 children have been accepted, The Salvation Army will then turn to the community for help in filling the need.  Angel Trees will appear at stores and businesses around the county on November 5th and remain until December 3rd.  Interested members of the community can choose an angel from one of the trees and fill the needs of that child.  
    
For more information on The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program contact Major Alma Gower at 941-748-5110 or alma_gower@uss.salvationarmy.org or visit our website at www.salvationarmybradenton.org.