Local Walmarts To Host Red Kettles And 'Fill The Truck' Toy Drive To Support The Salvation Army

CARNEGIE, Pa., Dec. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Walmart and The Salvation Army are pleased to announce that they are partnering this Christmas season to help provide new toys and coats to local needy children. The "Fill the Truck" toy drive will be hosted at most Western Pennsylvania Walmart stores, along with more than 2,500 other Walmart stores across the country, on Saturday, December 8, 2012.

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In addition, Walmart and Sam's Club stores will host The Salvation Army's iconic red kettles and bell ringers this holiday season from Friday, November 23 to Monday, December 24, to collect much-needed funds to support the Army's social service at Christmas and year-round. Last year in Western Pennsylvania, Walmart and Sam's Club stores helped The Salvation Army raise more than $670,000 locally, and more than $46 million nationally--nearly one-third of the record $147.6 million raised. All donations made to the red kettles will remain in the neighborhood where it is raised, and help The Salvation Army provide food, clothing, shelter, financial assistance and other services to thousands of deserving needy families.

The "Fill the Truck" event will begin at 9:00 a.m. and run until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 8, and is open to the general public who would like to donate new toys and coats to children who take part in The Salvation Army programs year-round. Upon arrival, shoppers will receive a list of suggested gifts to help fill the truck or collection bin at the store. Once the donation receptacle is full, The Salvation Army will distribute the gifts to local children in need.