Salvation Army, Walmart Puerto Rico join for toy drive
Representatives from Walmart and the Salvation Army kick off the Christmas toy drive Thursday.
The Salvation Army and Walmart have teamed up for the “Fill the Truck” campaign, urging the public to donate toys to Puerto Rico children whose families are economically disadvantaged. Last year the initiative collected 135,000 toys throughout the U.S. Eastern region, to which the Salvation Army of Puerto Rico belongs.
“We’re honored that Walmart Puerto Rico will join the initiative that is traditionally done in the U.S. and will provide this benefit to the young children of our island,” said Major Jorge Marzán, the Salvation Army’s Puerto Rico divisional commander.
From Dec. 6-15, customers who visit any of the 18 local Walmart stores will have the opportunity to purchase a gift and donate it to support the cause. The prices of the toys will be $10 or less thanks to an agreement the company made with different manufacturing companies. Customers will be able to identify them because the packaging includes the description of this initiative. Each store will volunteer to deliver the main message and orient people on where they can deposit their gifts.
“This year, our motto is ‘Let hope ring’ and today we rejoice in knowing that with the help of Walmart and the generous hearts of all who live in our beautiful island, not a single Christmas tree will be without a gift. An illusion that is fulfilled in the lives of our children is a joy that fuels their dreams, their hopes and desires to succeed. So we know that this gift will be a blessing to families and children in general who are going through a crisis in Puerto Rico,” said Marzán, noting the Salvation Army will select the children and families who will benefit from this initiative, including residents of Vieques and Culebra.
“At Walmart we’re very pleased to support this initiative during such a special time. Our company has a strong commitment to the community we serve and the kids are an important part of the community, which is why we invite everyone to join us to deliver happiness to many children this Christmas by gifting them with a toy,” said Jaime Fernández, regional general manager of Walmart Puerto Rico.
