MISSOULA — The Salvation Army began its two-day Toys for Tots distribution at Four Square Church in Missoula on Wednesday with nearly two dozen volunteers loading up bags full of toys for children of all ages.
Toys for Tots serves 400 needy families and helps over 1,000 children in Missoula County over the holiday season. Salvation Army Captain Ryan Boyd says the Missoula community always does a terrific job of making sure children’s Christmas toy needs are taken care of.
Meanwhile, bells are ringing at 17 locations around the city taking in donations that will be used throughout the year. With this year being a shorter collection season than normal, Boyd is stressing the importance of financial donations that will be used in the months ahead.
“What it does is it helps our neighbors in need all the way through next year. Having seven less days this year represents about $14,000 that we’re having to make up in our annual budget.”
The Salvation Army helped over 16,000 people last year throughout Missoula County.
