At The Salvation Army's annual Christmas Depot, parents shop toys for their children as well as receive clothes and boxes of food.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.– It was a shopping experience like no other.

As dozens of moms and dads pushed their large shopping carts down the toy-filled aisle there were no sales people, price tags or cashiers awaiting them.

Instead, U.S. Marines and other volunteers were on hand to escort parents and help them pick out just the right gift for their children.

As they neared the end of the aisle, teddy bears, stockings, clothes and a box full of food were added to their cart.

“I know my kids will have a good Christmas,” said one mother.

Welcome to the Christmas Depot—an annual event by The Salvation Army to bless families in need in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

This year, the Depot is helping to provide toys to more than 19,000 children and food to more than 8,000 families.

Operation Blessing delivered more than 52,000 pounds of food for the event, helping more than 8,000 families have a holiday meal.

“Our generous partners, sponsors, and donors have really come through and provided great support to those less fortunate in our community,” said The Salvation Army’s Major Lewis Reckline in a press release.

Partners included Operation Blessing, the U.S. Marines’ Toys for Tots program, The Virginian Pilot's Joy Fund, and the Angel Tree Project.

Operation Blessing delivered more than 52,000 pounds of food to help give families a holiday meal as well as provided volunteer help.

“It was great getting to be a volunteer and see the parents shop for their children and pick from board games, baby dolls, action figures, sports equipment, and everything else,” said Hailey Saenz, national volunteer and programs manager with Operation Blessing. “It's a really great opportunity for us to be able to join arms with The Salvation Army and see families blessed, especially during the holidays.”

The Salvation Army says they have seen approximately a three percent increase in families requesting Christmas assistance in the Hampton Roads area.

“Times are tough, need is up and resources are down this year so the support of our partners has really made a difference,” Major Reckline said.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Every day, the fleet of Hunger Strike Force trucks are on the road, delivering nutritious food and essential supplies to thousands facing hunger and poverty. With your help, we can continue to impact lives and give hope to those who need it most. Consider making an online donation today.

 

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