The Salvation Army Distributes 1,400 Toys

The San Bernardino Salvation Army Corp of San Bernardino recently touched the lives of local families with holiday gifts. Thursday, Dec. 17 and Friday, Dec. 18, The Salvation Army, with the help of community volunteers handed out food boxes, Stater Bros. gift certificates, and toys to 455 families who otherwise might not have had a Christmas. The families include about 1,400 children. "This was really a community-wide effort," noted Lt. Kathleen Griffiths, assistant corps officer, as she assisted a team of more than 20 volunteers in distributing the gifts. “We care a great deal about the people of San Bernardino and nearby communities,” Lt. Griffiths said. “So we ask the community what they can give, and what the community gives, we give to those who are in need.” At the same time, corps officers Maj. Daniel Henderson and Capt. Anya Henderson told the Christmas story to hundreds of people in the families who were blessed. Lt. Griffiths noted the Salvation Army uses a screening process to determine those who will benefit from the gift distribution. Those who know they will need help during the holiday season apply in October and November, and as many as the Salvation Army can accommodate are selected in late November. In 2015 nearly all of those who asked for assistance received it. The Salvation Army is still accepting gifts for specific children at the Giving Tree at the Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino. Food donations are also needed for more food baskets and for the Salvation Army's annual Christmas dinner on Christmas Day. The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps has distributed holiday gifts to those in need for longer than almost anyone can remember, starting before it moved to its former location on Fifth Street in 1950. It has helped people in San Bernardino since first opening the San Bernardino Corps in 1887. The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires. The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY or local number (909) 888-1336.