Sign-ups to begin for Salvation Army’s 2010 Christmas Cheer program
The Salvation Army of Lee, Hendry and Glades counities has announced dates to register for its 2010 Christmas Cheer program.
The program gives families who might not be able to afford it the chance to have a happy holiday season.
Families who register will have the opportunity to select toys donated through the Toys for Tots campaign, and have all the fixings needed for a holiday dinner.
Last year the Salvation Army helped early 5,000 families, according to spokeswoman Merrilu Bennett.
Bennett expects to see at least that many families, if not more, as the local economy is still struggling. She anticipating big numbers the first day of registration.
“We won’t know until we start but we had 700 families on the the first day last year,” Bennett said. “They started lining up at 6 in the morning.”
Registration times are Oct. 26 – 28, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Nov. 4, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 5-8 p.m.; Nov. 5, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; and Nov. 6, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Salvation Army, 10291 McGregor Blvd., in Fort Myers.
Bennett said that all families who looking to register are required to bring the following: adults need a valid Florida drivers license and a Social Security Card; children need their Social Security Card or birth certificate; and adults also need proof of income and benefits.
Parents who qualify will eventually be able to select toys for their kids to open on Christmas morning.
Bennett said they will do their best to help every family in need, and they don’t turn anyone away.
“Anything we can share with them, we try to do so,” she said.
For more information on the Salvation Army’s Christmas Cheer program, call 278-1551.