Salvation Army Christmas distribution day begins

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- The Salvation Army’s Kroc Centers Christmas distribution day starts Monday, Dec. 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Distribution day is usually a one-day event, but this year, due to the pandemic, organizers have divided the days. This year, over one thousand families who applied for assistance will receive food during the food distribution and toys will be distributed on Tuesday, Dec. 15. The two-day split is just one of the changes people will notice.

“It’s so exciting when we come to D-day. You know, you see the face, the parents are all excited, so it is the perfect opportunity to really thank the community, again in the middle of these times,” said Senior Kroc officer, Major Monty Wandling said.  

Organizers have divided the distribution days at the Kroc center into two separate days. Usually, food and toy distributions are done on the same day. During the toy distribution on Tuesday, toys will be divided by genders and put into groups for ages zero to 12. Generally, the age limit goes up to 15. 

Volunteer numbers have also been reduced to 40 people per two shifts each day. Usually, there are typically around 200 volunteers annually.

The Christmas distribution at the Kroc Center is one of the largest local assistance programs during the holiday seasons that aims to help serve thousands of families who are experiencing hardships.

“It’s where the community meets the community. So, it’s all going to come together where those who have helped to provide, and those who are in need this year. That all comes together on a beautiful day when people are serving and get their Christmas items,” Wandling said.