Nearly 10,000 Rochester residents in need, including children, given free food and toys just ahead of Christmas

Rochester, New York – Christmas is the nicest period of the year, with its festive atmosphere and decorations that are common during this time of year. Christmas is the most celebrated holiday in America, but for many people, it means additional costs that they are not able to cover. Christmas is also the time of year when communities chime in to help those in need, but more importantly, to help children feel the holiday magic.

Dozens of donation events took place in the Monroe County area in recent weeks, and many more are about to take place in the upcoming days. One of the largest of its kind took place this week, and nearly 10,000 local residents were given free food items and toys.

The annual toy and food distribution event hosted by the Salvation Army of Greater Rochester was held earlier this week, and more than 5,000 adults received free food, while more than 4,500 children were given toys for Christmas. The 4-day event took place from Monday to Thursday.

More than 200 volunteers and several businesses and groups teamed up with the organization to donate their time and items for the event. Those who wanted to donate and make the event work for more people were able to shop at the Salvation Army’s West Avenue location. The items were then distributed to those in need at the Salvation Army’s holiday assistance event.