During the weekend of Dec. 18-20, The Salvation Army was able to help a record number of people with food, toys and gifts.
The weekend started with the annual Christmas toy distribution Dec. 18, when The Salvation Army was able to provide toys for nearly 600 local children. On Dec. 19, volunteers visited nursing homes in Columbus, Aberdeen, West Point and Macon. About 500 people were visited and given hand-made ornaments.
On Dec. 20, volunteers were on hand to pass out 150 food boxes to elderly or disabled people from the community. In all, The Salvation Army was able to help over 1,100 people during the three days.
The Salvation Army expressed gratitude to all those who have helped in the Christmas efforts.
“I want to say thank you to anyone who donated a toy, adopted a forgotten angel or who has otherwise helped us this Christmas season. It has been a great blessing to those in need,” said Columbus Salvation Army Capt. Cristy Lind, who coordinated the Christmas toy efforts.
“With the increase of the number of people needing assistance, it is good to see that the people of Columbus are stepping up to the plate to assist with this increase by adopting the angels and donating to the red kettle effort,” commented Capt. Bert Lind, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army in Columbus.
Even with this record-breaking help, there is still work to be done. “There are still many more people to help, and we ask the residents of Columbus to continue to support us with their generosity,” said Capt. Lind.
The Salvation Army in Columbus, serving the counties of Lowndes, Noxubee, Clay and Monroe, provides food, clothing and shelter to an estimated 4,500 people each year. Headquarters are located at 2219 Main St. in Columbus.
For more information about the organization”s many programs, contact Capt. Bert Lind at 662-327-5137.
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