Hampden County Sheriff’s Department Continues Tradition of Giving with Toy for Joy Campaign
For the sixth consecutive year, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department (HCSO) is proudly supporting the Toy for Joy Christmas campaign, an initiative that has brought joy to children in need for over a century. Partnering with the Salvation Army, the HCSO has dedicated countless volunteer hours to ensure the campaign’s success.
Each holiday season, HCSO staff lend their efforts at the Salvation Army’s Pearl Street facility for five to seven days, where they help organize and distribute thousands of toys, books, and games to underprivileged families across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. Sheriff Nicholas Cocchi emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "There’s no better way to celebrate the season than by helping others celebrate." The campaign not only fosters community spirit but also ensures that donations go directly to families, minimizing administrative costs.
This year, the Toy for Joy campaign aims to raise $150,000 by Christmas Eve. Donations, regardless of size, are crucial to the campaign’s success and will be recognized in local publications, including The Republican and Reminder Publications. Contributions can be made online or by mail, and families with children aged 16 and under are encouraged to register for assistance.
Toy distribution will take place in mid-December at the Salvation Army locations in Springfield, Holyoke, and Greenfield. Recipients are required to present an email confirmation and photo ID to collect their gifts, ensuring a smooth and organized process.
As the community rallies to support this initiative, every donation brings a smile to the faces of qualifying children and their families this holiday season. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Salvation Army website or contact 733-1518.
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