Story Published:
Nov 1, 2009 at 6:12 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Nov 1, 2009 at 11:39 PM CDT
Due to the economy, the Salvation Army is anticipating more applicants for aid this holiday season.
The Salvation Army Christmas Center opens tomorrow afternoon.
Many social service agencies have seen a surge in those seeking assistance. Thirty percent of the people coming to the Friendship House are new faces.
The Salavation Army expects a similar turnout for those wanting food baskets, holiday parties, Coats for Kids or toys.
"We processed over 41,000 individuals last year," said Rich Drager, Salvation Army Spokesperson. "That would include food baskets. That would include any of our toys, any of our Christmas type parties or events that we do. Monday will be the first day that we start processing folks this year and we're anxiously awaiting how the economy is going to probably drive those numbers up this year."
Drager says agencies need everything from non-perishable foods to toys due to the increased demand.
So, he's encouraging businesses and residents to dig as deep as they can this holiday season.
The Christmas Center will be open Monday through Friday one to four in the afternoon.
Residents can pick up applications at the Sylvia Fites Family Center at 414 NE Jefferson in Peoria.
Wednesday, Dec 16 at 7:24 PM Jaynie Compton wrote ...
My husband is without work and I am the only one working therefor hard to have extra money for christmas. His son who is almost 13 lives with us and we could use help.