CHRISTMAS ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Christmas Meal Assistance:
The Salvation Army offers Christmas food baskets to families who are experiencing an extraordinary need this holiday season. Each basket includes two types of meat, potatoes, two vegetables, two fruits, pie and possible additions based on donations. The size and number of items vary depending on family size.
Families can register during November by contacting the Worship & Service Center in their community. For the 2011 holiday season, only the service centers in Lakewood, Noble and Harvest are still accepting registrations. All other sites have reached their registration capacity. Food baskets will be distributed on December 15 to recipient families.
Toys for Children Under Age 14:
The Twin Cities Salvation Army is the largest provider of toys to children who may not otherwise receive Christmas gifts this holiday season. Families in need can apply for their children to receive gifts by completing an online application or calling The Salvation Army registration hotline at (651) 746-3595 by December 8. When all operators are busy the phone will continue to ring, so please remain on the line.
Phone Registration Hours (Monday - Friday):
November 7 to 23 - 9am to 4pm
November 24 to 27 - Closed
November 28 to December 8 - 9am to 6pm
After December 8, no new registrations will be accepted. Families will be notified of acceptance into the program no later than December 14 and will be assigned to one of the toy shop distribution locations. If you miss registration, you can call (651) 746-3595 December 9 to 22 for information about the emergency overflow toyshop.
For Other Needs:
If you are experiencing other needs this holiday season that are not listed above, contact The Salvation Army Social Services Office for your community to find out what additional services they provide.
You can also call the United Way 211 community helpline for free, confidential assistance 24 hours, 7 days a week. Dial 2-1-1 from any landline or (651) 291-0211 from any cell phone to speak to a trained operator.