Joyful parents, kids pick out Christmas presents at Salvation Army Times Square Community Center

NEW YORK — Just in time for Christmas, folks and kids had been in a position to pick out logo new presents on Friday thank you to a few beneficiant volunteers. 

There had been rows and rows of toys at the Salvation Army Times Square Community Center, the place 300 to 400 other folks had been anticipated to get presents and feature them wrapped. 

“Unfortunately due to cost of rent, cost of bills, aren’t able to provide for their children, and so in this way we’re kind of being able to alleviate some of that weight off of the parents and also put some joy in the hearts of these children,” mentioned Yuco Hall, with the Salvation Army. 

A circle of relatives from Venezuela in New York City for 2 months visited the second one toy store on 14th Street. 

“She’s grateful to get some toys because she don’t have the possibilities, you know, no money,” a translator advised us. 

“It just gives them a sense of pride and happiness to be able to choose the toys that their children are going to open up on Christmas morning,” mentioned LeNissa Sukhdeo, with the Salvation Army. 

Volunteer Sarah Hawkins introduced her husband and 3 youngsters. 

“Important for them to see real life, to see what’s around us in New York, the needs that are around us and Christmas is not just about ourselves. It’s about serving others,” mentioned Hawkins. 

“It makes me feel great to be helping others and to be part of this Christian community,” mentioned 9-year-old Johnny. 

The Salvation Army mentioned it partnered with Hope for New York for the toy donations.   

And what is Christmas with out the meals? Catholic Charities dispensed foods within the Bronx to a gradual crowd of thankful New Yorkers. 

“They get packed nonperishables and they also receive fresh produce and meats,” one lady mentioned. 

The occasions had been only some examples of many beneficiant New Yorkers serving to one some other this vacation season.