In an era of constant and often dramatic change and evolution in most aspects of American life, there is something comforting about 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 Christmas season not only for a lifetime, but also for their family members and relatives who preceded them.
U.S. Representative 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 the Salvation Army’s largest Donald G. Spencer and his wife, the elder Paula Spencer, at Union Station.
The campaign continues until December 24. As the final days of the campaign approach, ensuring that all deserving children and families share in the joy of Christmas depends on the generosity of individuals, businesses and organisations.
The season of Christmas, and a tradition that stretches from the 1920s to the 2020s, is fleeting.
“Institutions become important. They are significant because their reputation has been built on consistency,” Neal said in making his contribution.
Neal has served in Congress since 1989, but his tenure has only covered about a third of Toy for Joy’s history.
“Toy for Joy has kept going despite world wars, international conflicts and tough economic times,” said Neal. “Despite everything, they have continued forward. For many children, this IS Christmas.”
Toy for Joy distributes toys through the Salvation Army’s Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield branches, which sponsor the initiative. Children in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties who might otherwise be excluded by 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 between 3,500 and 4,000 children and more than 1,600 families in Springfield alone this year.
The sponsor of the campaign is the Salvation Army, which has been an integral part of this tradition for generations.
“(The Salvation Army) goes back to its role in the 1950s, but the campaign itself goes back more than a century and still matters,” Donald Spencer said.
“We want Christmas to be special for as many children as possible.”
Toy for Joy is promoted and advertised by The Republican, Reminder Publishing, MassLive and El Poble Latí. All contributions will be acknowledged and published in The Republican and Reminder Publications, and online at MassLive.com.
The campaign is also supported by individual volunteers and groups, including Eversource and the sheriff’s office.
All donations will be published in The Republican, Reminder Publications and online at MassLive.com.
A coupon posted with the 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.
Registration is closed. Collection information can be found at the registration link, which is https://www.salvationarmyma.org/toyforjoy.
Translated by Damaris Pérez Pizarro