Countywide : Salvation Army Asks Holiday Aid

The Salvation Army of Orange County unveiled its plan Monday to feed 5,500 needy families and give new toys to 15,000 children this holiday season, and appealed to the public for help.

The nonprofit organization is asking people either to give presents, volunteer some time distributing and packaging food or help collect money for the poor.

Bell ringers are needed to stand in front of malls, grocery stores and on street corners next to the Salvation Army’s trademark bright red kettle for a few hours on Saturdays. There will be 60 locations throughout the county, Salvation Army Lt. Lee R. Lescano said at a news conference.

“We’ll take as many volunteers as want to (volunteer),” he said. “We’re expecting to raise $200,000 from those kettles this year, just as last year brought.”

Christmastime “is a very important time for us. This is the time most people see us. We need to get to the people. This is a worthwhile effort,” Lescano said.

He urged individuals, businesses, schools, service clubs and community groups to collect canned foods or buy an $8 to $10 toy to donate to the needy.

Every year, Lescano said, the Salvation Army runs out of new toys to give to children. “We’re asking for brand-new toys because a used toy is a little bit of a disappointment to a child. And we always fall short,” he said.

The youngsters will get their gifts on Dec. 21, 22 and 23.

Lescano said the Salvation Army is also sponsoring an Angel Tree program at several Orange County malls. Brea Mall, for example, has a tree hung with cards bearing children’s names. Shoppers are encouraged to take a card, buy a gift for the boy or girl and drop it off at the tree. The child will receive the gift with compliments of the “Christmas Angel.”

Those wishing to perform a more personalized deed can adopt a family in need, Lescano said.

“You can adopt a family and buy the turkey and other food and presents for Thanksgiving and Christmas,” he said.

Anyone wishing to donate food or a toy, help package and distribute, ring bells or adopt a family during the holidays is asked to call (714) 546-7880.