By Jason KUROSU

While food and shelter remain the top priorities for the Salvation Army, the holiday season introduces another “need” for families, prompting its annual Toy & Joy Distribution Day, which the Salvation Army of Glendale will be hosting this Saturday, Dec. 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Over 900 children have been signed up for this year’s event, marking the Salvation Army of Glendale’s largest distribution day yet. Families will be able to “shop” for items donated by businesses, charitable groups, church groups and individuals throughout the community. Along with the regular participation from Nickelodeon that has offered volunteer help at the event in the past, Toys for Tots, Be.Group, Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club are all helping the Salvation Army with volunteer help and toy donations.

The Salvation Army still needs volunteers to help families search for items, restock items at the event and translate to Spanish and Armenian.

“Even though we give out thousands of toys, it is only one toy that makes the difference for a kid on Christmas morning,” said Lt. Joshua Sneed, executive director for Salvation Army Glendale.

Anyone interested in donating toys or volunteering for the event can contact Salvation Army Glendale Volunteer and Events Coordinator Rachel Ryen at (818) 246-5586 x 121.

  Jason Kurosu