Local organization gives toys and food to over 800 families

A single mom of four says it helps her family have a happier holiday

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Toys and food were given to more than 800 families this week.
A single mom of four says it helps her family have a happier holiday.

“I’ve never been a stay at home mom before,” said Amber Summers. “Being in the pandemic, trying to get a job, and trying to go back to school, it’s actually been throwing things off for me. So, I imagine I’m not the only one struggling. So, this stuff just really helps.”

It was all thanks to the Salvation Army. Families pre-registered for the baskets which were filled with a frozen meat choice and with canned goods for a Christmas dinner. Major Mark Anderson says workers and volunteers helped families pre-shop as the toy shop was not the same this year due to COVID.

“Behind you, you see a lot of the pre-prepared packages of toys this year,” said Anderson. “Because of the pandemic, we couldn’t set up the giant toy store, and let everybody shop. But this year we had shoppers come in and we followed all of the guidelines to make sure that we’re keeping everybody safe.”
The food and toy distribution will continue on Wednesday. Major Anderson thanks the community for its generosity during the pandemic.