SALISBURY, Md. - Leaders of the Salvation Army in Salisbury said this year, the amount of children they have pledged to help this holiday season is higher than in years past.
The Salvation Army in Salisbury is one of the numerous organizations on Delmarva to receive funds from the WBOC Bless Our Children campaign. The campaign is designed to raise money for various Delmarva organizations that purchase Christmas gifts for children in need.
"Each child we commit to giving two toys and an article of clothing. So, the Bless our Children campaign helps us fill in the places where we might be short in that effort in order to fulfill that commitment," said Major Vic Tidman of the Salvation Army.
Tidman said this year, the Salvation Army has pledged to help 1,200 children with toys. 200 more than the organization helped last year. Along the toys, the Salvation Army has also committed to put together about 700 boxes of food for local families. Between preparing everything for those in need and juggling that with the Red Kettle campaign, it is a busy time for Tidman, but he said it is long hours well spent.
"What makes it all worth it is the opportunity to share God's grace with those that are less fortunate. And that's really why the Salvation Army exists, as we take the benefit that God has given to people and share it as a benefit to people that are in need," Tidman said.
Salvation Army leaders went on to say while the monetary donations go a long way, they are in great need of volunteers for the Red Kettle campaign. If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer, call 410-749-RING.
