Toy and Food Drive at Washington Square Mall

Traditions alive -- the salvation army is making some changes.

They have new safety protocols -- in place for their annual toy drive.

44news reporter marisa patwa has a look at the events kick off -- earlier today in evansville.

"this is the only christmas they are going to receive this year -- they just don't have the financial means."

Nearly eighteen hundred families in need are receiving free toys and gifts from the salvation army at their annual toy drive -- taking place over the next three days at the washington square mall and it's a true blessing for those families who are financially insecure for the first time "many of these families have been effected by covid.

They've lost their jobs.

Others have had their jobs and hours grateful reduced."

"normally, it's actually the parents who do the shopping for their children at the salvation army's toy store.

But of course, with covid-19 -- things had to change.

With the volunteers doing the shopping and packaging themselves.

But parents are just grateful they have the chance they to give the christmas they deserve and the toys that they want."

"i'm hoping that my son gets like a little walker -- he'll be turning two.

And then my girls is probably like a barbie doll -- baby doll set they can play with."

And while the toys will bring those children joy -- the donated food will help to fill their bellies.

"it's going to help out a lot with you know food you know with stuff that i don't actually have and stuff that i can't get from the store."

"several people said, "oh i just stopped back here for food and then "i'm getting two more food boxes?

And they get ready to drive off and we're like no we haven't brought our your toy boxes yet."

The salvation army is asking for volunteers to help distribute the toys to families from 9 to 3 p.m.

Wednesday and thursday.

Reporting in evansville marisa patwa 44news