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Salvation Army collects thousands of toys to hand out to central Ohio families

In addition to the toys, families also go home with a Christmas breakfast, dinner and game for the family to play together.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Santa is getting help from the Salvation Army of Central Ohio to pass out Christmas gifts this holiday season.

10TV got a chance to talk to the families who have one less thing to worry about because of this experience happening at the Ohio State Fairgrounds.

With help from toy drivers, the Salvation Army collected around 10,000 toys. 

Erica Boss said the organization is helping make this Christmas special for her kids. 

"It's a blessing for me and this year's been a struggle, so it really helps out," she said.

Major Tricia Brennan, Salvation Army of Central Ohio area coordinator said, "This really is what we're here for, and we know that every year can be great or it can be challenging. So when you have a challenging year and think you need a little bit of help, that's really what the Salvation Army is here for."

More than 4,600 families signed up to collect gifts for their children, including Blessing Okoro. 

"I'm so happy that they are helping us out with our kids, so it will help us a lot. So when we are doing some bills, we don't have to think about buying a lot of toys. They are helping a lot," Okoro said.

The families also go home with a Christmas breakfast, dinner and a game for the family to play together.

Haley Jackson was there picking up gifts for her 2-year-old. 

"Yeah, it was good. It's one more thing that I have for my child, so it was good. It was a good experience," she said.

More than 1,500 volunteers will be helping out over the three days to hand out gifts.

"This is the best way to end the year. We get to see lots and lots of families, and it does make a difference. Everyone's donation helps," Brennan said.

Boss had a final message for everyone who donated. 

"Thank you. I appreciate you and you're a blessing," she said.

The Salvation Army still needs volunteers for their Red Kettle campaign that runs until Christmas Eve. Brennan said they are still not at their $500,000 goal this season. This helps them pay for other services they offer to people throughout the year.

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