The Salvation Army brought smiles to faces once again, handing out toys and food boxes to about 2,000 needy families Wednesday at Cal Expo.
The Christian charity, backed by an army of 200 volunteers, handed out food boxes, plus chickens. For families with children, the parents were also given toys and a stocking stuffer.
Capt. Hendrik Sumter of the Sacramento Salvation Army said there were more toys to pass out this year. Thousands of toys were distributed, everything from scooters to musical toys.
"We are going to make lots of kids happy," Sumter said. "And lots of families will be happy with the food box."
About 4,000 food boxes were handed out. Some large families received two food boxes.
The toys were purchased by the Army from cash donated by citizens and from toy drive barrels placed at businesses and service organizations. Eligible families must fall below certain income levels to qualify as recipients. Those who arrived at Cal Expo came pre-qualified and holding the necessary paperwork.
Along with the event at Cal Expo, another 1,500 Sacramento families were given food boxes and toys by the Salvation Army this Christmas season with the help of the California Highway Patrol and the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department.
Cars rolled in for their food boxes; then volunteers brought donations to each needy individual's vehicle.
Among those being helped was Monica Raya, 30, of Natomas. Raya has two children, ages 5 and 4, and works part-time at a fast-food job.
"This year it is hard because I don't have much money for toys," Raya said. "My income just pays the rent, bills and some food."
Raya pulled up at Cal Expo and showed ID and paperwork. First, volunteers gave her toys and then a box of food, without her leaving her vehicle, thanks to volunteers.
"That's another good thing – you can still stay warm and get stuff," Raya said.
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