12/18/13 - For many parents, the joy of seeing their childrenâs faces light up on Christmas morning is tough to top. The Salvation Army of Livingston County and Toys for Tots partner up every year to help spread hope and joy by providing Christmas assistance and gifts to families with children in need. This weekend marks the big distribution at a toy warehouse in Genoa Township, but an emergency assistance event has also been scheduled on Monday to make sure that every child in need receives a gift. Local Corps Development Director April Dertian says the economy may be improving in some areas, but they still have over 600 local families that requested assistance this year. The toy shop is located in the former Fashion Bug store, next to Carsons in the Grand River Plaza in Genoa Township. Gifts will be provided for children up through age 17, who are able to come in and âshopâ for their presents from a huge assortment of items encompassing pretty much anything a kid could wish or ask for - all of which have been graciously donated by the community. Dertian says anyone in need can contact the Salvation Armyâs Lake Street offices to be guaranteed a time slot between 1 and 4pm on Monday, December 23rd. For those unsure of what time they might be able to actually arrive; Dertian says they can just show up at the distribution warehouse aka âtoy shopâ between 9:30am and 7:30pm Monday, which will be handled on a first come first serve basis. Those intending to show up for the emergency assistance should bring proof of Livingston County residency, as well as proof of custody for each child in the household. Anyone interested can also apply online through the Toys for Tots website. A link is posted below. (JM)
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