Plymouth Toy Shop Attendees Express Gratitude For ‘Saved’ Christmas
*Toy Shop attendee, Sheree
As Christmas nears, Salvation Army Corps across Metro Detroit have begun their annual Toy Shops. For families in need, this can provide a Christmas miracle.
The Plymouth Corps Community Center Toy Shop kicked off Wednesday, December 13 and featured an abundance of toys for all ages, as well as food boxes which were donated by Bank of America as part of their “Bountiful Boxes” program. They are filled with food for a complete Christmas dinner.
According to Plymouth Corps Community Center officer, Major Kris Wood, most of the toys are donated through Angel Trees that go to churches and corporations in the area.
“We have a lot of corporations that put them up in their offices. And then they encourage their customer base, as well as their employees to all take Angel Tree tags,” Major Kris said.
Toy Shop attendees are guided through the toys by volunteers and allowed one small and one large toy from each table. One frequent attendee, Sheree, expressed her gratitude:
“I’ve been coming here awhile, it helps a lot. I wouldn’t have made it without them. It puts tears in my eyes sometimes. This Toy Shop means joy, it brings a big smile to my kids’ faces.”
*Sheree picks out toys with the help of volunteer, Kim
Sheree has three kids: a 7-year-old girl, 11-year-old boy, and 23-year-old young adult. The variety of toys means she can find something for all of them.
Another attendee, Jennifer, is currently unemployed and has a 14-month-old at home.
“It’s saving our Christmas this year. I don’t have a job right now, so the gifts are very helpful for my child. This is my second year coming to the Toy Shop.”
*Toy Shop attendee, Jennifer
After attendees make their way through the toys, they are given batteries (if needed), a bible, and wrapping paper for the gifts. On their way out, volunteers load the “Bountiful Boxes,” and help load cars. One volunteer, Kathy, has been volunteering for 30 years:
“I come all the time, I ring bells and I work a number of their projects. Whenever I can.”
*Volunteer Shelby loads food onto a cart
*Volunteers (left to right): Andrea, Jim, McKenna, Kate, Kathy
Thanks to generous volunteers and donors, the Toy Shop is saving Christmas by putting presents under the tree and Christmas dinner on the table of families in need.
If you would like to help The Salvation Army continue with great programs like Toy Shops, you can donate to the Plymouth Corps Community Center’s virtual red kettle, or volunteer as a bell-ringer. The Salvation Army remains committed to spreading Love Beyond Christmas by providing help during the holidays, and all year round.