In a time of constant and often dramatic change and evolution in most aspects of American life, there is something comforting to be found in traditions and institutions that stand the test of time.
The Toy for Joy Christmas campaign, now in its 102nd year, is one example. For many longtime donors, it has been an important part of the holiday season not only for their entire lives, but also for family members and past family members.
U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield, recognized the lasting nature of Toy for Joy’s impact when he personally delivered his $2,000 donation Dec. 3 to Salvation Army Commander Donald G. Spencer and his wife, Major Paula Spencer, in Union. season
The campaign continues until December 24. As the final weeks of the campaign get under way, ensuring that all deserving children and families share in the joy of Christmas depends on the generosity of individuals, businesses and organizations over the next 16 days.
The time of the Christmas season, and a tradition spanning from the 1920s to the 1920s, is fleeting.
“Institutions become important. They are significant because their reputation has been built on consistency,” Neal said as he made his contribution.
Neal has served in Congress since 1989, but his tenure has covered only about a third of Toy for Joy’s history.
“Toy for Joy has continued through world wars, international conflicts and tough economic times,” Neal said. “With all that, they stuck with it. For a lot of kids, this IS Christmas.”
Toy for Joy couponThe Republican, file
Toy for Joy distributes toys through the Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield locations of the sponsoring Salvation Army. Children in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties who might otherwise be left out due to circumstances beyond their control are enjoying the excitement of Christmas thanks to the generosity of others.
According to Paula Spencer, Toy for Joy will benefit 3,500 to 4,000 children and more than 1,600 families from the Springfield location alone this year.
The sponsor of the campaign is the Salvation Army, which has been part of this tradition for generations.
“(The Salvation Army) dates its role back to the 1950s, but the campaign itself goes back more than a century, and it still matters,” Donald Spencer said.
“We want to make Christmas special for as many children as we can.”
Contributions from groups and organizations come from many generous sources, some new and others with a long-standing record of support. Among them is the Community Foundation of Western Mass. ($1,500), FLN-MAR Rubber and Plastics of Holyoke ($1,000), Aspen Square Management ($1,000), Noonan Energy Corp. of Springfield ($1,000) and Harry Grodsky & Company of Springfield ($500).
Also, Sullivan Keating and Moran Insurance of Springfield ($400), City of Westfield ($250) and Connecticut Special Games Snow Makers ($200), Butternut Walkers of Westfield ($200), Dowd Agencies ($150), Phifer Contractors of Brimfield ($100) and M&T of East Longmeadow ($100).
Toy for Joy is promoted and advertised by The Republican, Reminder Publishing, MassLive and El Pueblo Latino. All contributions will be acknowledged and published in The Republican and Reminder Publications, and online by MassLive.com.
The campaign is also supported by volunteers from individuals and groups, including Eversource and the sheriff’s office.
All donations will be published in The Republican, Reminder Publications and online by MassLive.com.
A coupon posted with Toy for Joy stories can be used to mail a contribution to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103.
Donors can also make contributions online at https://give.salvationarmy.org/give/212002/#!/donation/checkout.
Registrations are closed. Collection information can be found at the registration link, which is https://www.salvationarmyma.org/toyforjoy.
Distribution will take place at the Salvation Army’s Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield locations. Details for collection vary by location, and these details for each location are available at the link.
Distribution days at Springfield Citadel at 170 Pearl St. during the week of December 11 to 18. In Holyoke and Greenfield, distribution dates and times were assigned upon registration, which is mandatory.
Each child will receive age-appropriate toys, games and books. Applicants will receive an email confirmation with the date and time the toys will be distributed.
They must bring their confirmation email and photo ID to pick-up. Your pick up time will be shown in “Order Summary”.
More information can be obtained by calling (413) 733-1518.