The Salvation Army of Northwest Ohio is providing assistance throughout the holiday season to families in need.
The holiday seasons often add financial and emotional stress to many families, according to the Salvation Army.
“Every year, parents must choose between giving their children gifts or paying bills,” the Salvation Army wrote on the website. “Individuals facing poverty often spend the holidays without the warmth of a shared meal or even a support system.”
The Salvation Army aims to provide assistance to these families in need, providing groceries, utility and gift assistance, as well as providing experiences such as holiday events and traditions to families.
“From gifts for children in need to special meals for those who would otherwise go without fellowship on the holidays and meeting other basic needs – we aim to bring joy back into the season,” the Salvation Army wrote.
The Salvation Army has several programs dedicated to helping families during the holiday season, including the Adopt-a-family program, where families can be “adopted” to provide a special Christmas celebration; Children’s Tree, Angel Tree, Toy Shop or Toy Town, providing fits to children in need; Thanksgifting and Christmas hot meals or food baskets, holiday parties for youth or older adults and coats and winter gear for youth and adults.
Registration for holiday assistance can be done at several locations until Nov. 1. Lucas County residents can apply at The Salvation Army on 620 N. Erie St. Ottawa County residents can apply at the Ottawa County Public Library or the Salvation Army on 1834 E. Perry Street, Port Clinton. Wood County residents can apply at the Salvation Army on 1045 N. Main St., Suite 8, Bowling Green.
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Documents required to apply include, 1) picture ID for all adults in the household; 2) proof of income for the household (current within 30 days), may be a paystub, proof of unemployment or SS/SSI/SSD printout; 3) proof of address (must include applicants name, address and be current within 30 days); 4) proof of birthdates for all children, may be a birth certificate, 2018 income tax return, or recent official school record, 5) if applicable, legal guardianship or custody papers.
The Salvation Army Fall Festival will take place Friday, Oct. 25, 6 pm to 8 pm at 620 N. Erie St. Admission is free. Enjoy food, crafts, games, activities and a bake sale. Kids are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes.
For more information on the Salvation Army’s holiday assistance programs, visit easternusa.salvationarmy.org/northeast-ohio/northwest-ohio/brighten-the-holidays/.