Akron Zips to Host Annual Teddy Bear Toss to support The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program
Akron, OH (December 2nd, 2025) The Akron Zips will face off against Bucknell University on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025, at 7:00pm at James A. Rhodes Arena. This year, The Zips Basketball games will host a “Teddy Bear Toss” in partnership with The Salvation Army in Summit County to support their annual Angel Tree program. Fans attending the game are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped teddy bears or plush toys to toss onto the court after the game.
“We are so blessed for The University of Akron for their generosity and partnership to host this Teddy Bear Toss during the Akron Zips Men’s Basketball game,” said Captain Bramwell Applin, Area Coordinator of The Salvation Army of Summit County.
The Salvation Army in Summit County’s Angel Tree program will support more than 1,500 children across 500 Summit County families, ensuring each child receives Christmas gifts selected just for them—including toys, clothing, and essential items. All collected toys will be distributed through The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, which provides Christmas gifts to children from families facing financial hardship.
Captain Jana Applin, who leads oversees Angel Tree Program for The Salvation Army in Summit County, added, “Every stuffed animal tossed onto that court becomes a symbol of love and encouragement for a child who may otherwise go without. Through our Angel Tree program, these gifts will be provided to children whose families are struggling, helping them feel the meaning and hope of Christmas.”
To attend the Akron Zip’s game on December 3rd, 2025, ticketing information is available at
https://gozips.evenue.net/event/MB25/MB05
For more information about The Salvation Army Summit County Area Services, to volunteer, or make a donation, visit SalvationArmySummit.org or call 330-762-8481 or visit www.SalvationArmySummit.org.
About the Angel Tree Program
The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program ensures that children in need experience the joy of Christmas. Families register for assistance in September and October during sign-up days. Each child is assigned a tag with age, clothing sizes, and a personalized wish list. Community donors “adopt” these tags at Walmart, other supporting locations, or by calling 330-762-8481. Donors purchase gifts from the child’s wish list and utilize tag instructions to drop off the gifts. Volunteers and staff distribute gifts to families in December, bringing holiday cheer, dignity, and hope to households experiencing financial hardship.
About The Salvation Army Summit County Area Services
Since 1884, The Salvation Army has provided hope and help to vulnerable individuals and families in the Greater Akron area. Through programs such as Angel Tree, multiple food programs, emergency assistance, Learning Zone (afterschool program, preschool/childcare, and summer enrichment camp), and other wrap-around services, The Salvation Army remains committed to serving neighbors in need without discrimination.
The Salvation Army’s Mission
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, and outreach programs for youth.