Syracuse, N.Y. -- The Christmas Bureau’s annual distribution day drew thousands of needy people to the Oncenter on Wednesday.
The bureau, a joint campaign by the Salvation Army and the United Way of Central New York, gave toys, books, games, food and gift cards to 2,200 low-income families from Onondaga County who registered for the event.
Deanna Delmonico, a spokesperson for the Salvation Army, said the families included 5,000 children.
Family members, some of whom brought their children, were allowed to pick out a toy for each of their children. Altogether, nearly 10,000 people were expected to attend the nine-hour giveaway.
Many of the toys and other items distributed at the event were donated by organizations and individuals, while others were purchased with money donated to the bureau, including funds raised by the “Old Newsboys” campaign.
Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact him anytime: Email | X | Facebook | 315-470-3148