Valu Home Centers to Collect Toys for The Salvation Army
PITTSBURGH (October 30, 2023) – The Salvation Army is partnering with Valu Home Centers this holiday season to help provide toys to children in Bradford, Erie and Meadville, Pennsylvania. From now until December 4, new and unwrapped toys can be dropped off in bins at neighborhood Valu stores – the toys will then be distributed by through The Salvation Army’s seasonal assistance programs.
“Our work would not be possible without the support of our generous community partners, like Valu Home Centers,” Major Gregory Hartshorn, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania said. “No family should have to choose between putting food on the table or presents under the Christmas tree. Thanks to this partnership, we can work to ensure families in the communities of Bradford, Erie and Meadville do not have to make this difficult choice.”
The holidays are a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate. Yet, for many, financial hardships prevent them from experiencing the joy of the holiday season. By donating a toy, community members are helping families experience the hope that can be found during the season of giving.
“At Valu Home Centers, we take great pride in our deep-rooted commitment to community engagement,” said Mike Ervolina, President & CEO of Valu Home Centers. “We believe it is not only our privilege but our responsibility to make a positive impact on the cities and towns where our stores stand. Partnering with The Salvation Army this holiday Season for the ‘Do-it for Others Toy Drive’ ensures that every child has a gift to open this Christmas, despite the economic hardships many families are facing.”
During the upcoming holiday season, there many volunteer opportunities for community members, including bell ringing at various Red Kettle locations and volunteering with The Salvation Army’s holiday feeding programs. Visit salvationarmywpa.org/volunteer or contact your local Salvation Army to learn how you can give back this holiday season.
Every dollar raised through the annual Red Kettle Campaign remains in the community where it was given and makes it possible for The Salvation Army to deliver life-changing programs and services throughout the year. Donations to the Red Kettle campaign, which officially kicks off in a couple short weeks, can be made virtually as well by texting the word “Kettle” to 31333. Donors can then reply with their ZIP code to ensure each donation goes directly back into the community where they reside.
Celebrating over 150 years of global service as both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 132 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, visit salvationarmywpa.org. The Salvation Army … doing the most good for the most people in the most need.