The Salvation Army in Tucson is accepting applications for its Christmas Angel Program, which provides donated toys to children in local families struggling to afford gifts this holiday season.
Applications opened Oct. 8 at saangeltree.org. Families enter their ZIP code and follow the registration instructions. No invitation code is required.
The organization hopes to help 1,600 families this year, according to the Salvation Army. The program depends on donations from individuals, businesses, churches and community groups across Southern Arizona.
“We know many families are facing difficult choices, and we want parents to know they don’t have to face Christmas alone,” said Maj. Andres Espinoza, the Salvation Army’s Tucson city coordinator.
To apply, a parent or legal guardian must provide a photo ID, proof of residency in the city of Tucson and birth certificates for each child 17 or younger.
Once a child is accepted, he or she becomes eligible to receive toys donated through the Christmas Angel program. Approved parents will be given a date and time to “shop” for their children at the Salvation Army’s Christmas Toy Distribution, scheduled for Dec. 17, 18 and 21 at the All Nations Corps Community Center, 1001 N. Richey Boulevard. Families will receive more details after they register.
Community members can support the program by donating new, unwrapped toys, sponsoring a family, hosting an Angel Tree or making a financial contribution, according to the Salvation Army. All Christmas assistance stays in Tucson.
“When you give, you’re doing more than putting a toy under a tree,” Espinoza said. “You’re giving a child the feeling that their community cares about them.”
The Salvation Army served more than 27,000 people in the Tucson area last year through programs including food assistance, shelter, rent and utility help, disaster relief and holiday aid, according to the organization.
For more information or to learn about other ways to help, visit salvationarmytucson.org or call 520-792-1111.
