Every year, the generosity of residents and businesses across Western Massachusetts brings smiles and happiness to hundreds of families and thousands of children who would otherwise not know the joy of the Christmas holiday season.
It’s that time again. For the 102nd year of its proud existence, the Toy for Joy campaign is underway.
This year’s campaign, as always, will be sponsored by the Salvation Army through its Western Massachusetts locations in Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield. Toy for Joy is conducted in partnership with The Republican, Reminder Publishing, MassLive and El Pueblo Latino.
The Hampden County Sheriff’s Department will once again lead a list of community partners and volunteers whose efforts help make Toy for Joy a success.
Reminder Publishing is especially stepping to the plate in this year’s collaborative effort with Executive Editor Payton North serving as coordinator for the media partnership. With continued support from the community, deserving children throughout Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties, who might otherwise be left out of the holiday joy experienced by others, will enjoy age-appropriate toys and books supplied through the drive.
With more than a century of giving and sharing, Toy for Joy survived and thrived for over half of The Republican’s 200-year existence. This year’s goal is $150,000 with a deadline of Christmas Eve, Dec. 24.
For donors, giving is easier than ever. Contributions will be published in The Republican and The Reminders, as well as online at MassLive in recognition of the generosity of donors and to encourage others to participate in one of the region’s most enduring and meaningful traditions.
No donation is too big or too small. A coupon published with Toy for Joy stories may be used to submit a contribution by mail to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103.
Donors can also make online contributions at give.salvationarmy.org/toyforjoy.
Families with children 16 or under are eligible to be recipients, but prior registration, with required documentation of need, is required. Registration will be accepted beginning Monday, Nov. 11. The registration link is https://www.salvationarmyma.org/toyforjoy.
Each child will receive toys, games and books. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. Applicants must register only once per household. They will receive an email confirmation with their toy distribution date and time.
They must bring their email confirmation and photo ID for pickup. Their pickup time will be listed under “Order Summary.”
Distribution dates will be in mid-December. For information, please call 413-733-1518.
With the continued support of the regional community, Toy for Joy will again be providing happiness and joy — in the true spirit of Christmas and the holiday season.
