The Salvation Army in Brooksville, known in general for spreading sunshine throughout the county and particularly during the holidays, is reporting a successful 2022 holiday season of giving. Now at this time, leaders Lt. Joshua and April Davis are stepping forward to celebrate this success with the Hernando community.
“We were able to give toys to more than 110 families (as part of the holiday giving campaign),” said Lt. Joshua Davis. “It is because of the generosity of our community that every child was taken care of.” Davis credits the donors and volunteers who provided these gifts by way of the Salvation Army Angel Tree program, which across the nation provides Christmas gifts for thousands of children annually. Once a child has been registered for this program, their Christmas wish list is shared with donors who play Santa by fulfilling endless Christmas wishes. “Popular toys this year included Barbie and LOL Dolls, My Little Pony, and miniature cars,” he said.
Of course, it wouldn’t be the holiday season without the Salvation Army bell ringers, who oversee red donation kettles at stores and businesses throughout the county. Lt. Joshua Davis reported, “This year, we had a goal of $115,200. Because of the wintry cold snap, we came in at just over $109,000.”
Davis acknowledged the efforts of those who, from October through December, contributed more than 270 volunteer hours, including 125 spent overseeing Red Kettles and the remainder assisting with the Angel Tree program. “Some of the biggest volunteer groups included the Spring Hill Rotary Club and the Wesleyan Church of Brooksville,” said Lt. Joshua Davis.
Lt. Davis also acknowledges the donation of 450 turkeys for Thanksgiving holiday dinners, along with generous donations of clothing and household goods for families in need. “We so appreciate the generosity of the Hernando community,” he said. “Through the donation of their time, money, and gifts, they met the needs of the community this Christmas season.”
To volunteer or contribute to the Salvation Army Brooksville/Hernando County, visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/.
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