The Salvation Army Kroc Center main campus in Rolando Park is urgently calling for new toy donations. “It is crucial that we get the donations in so that we can count them, sort them, and we can put them on the shelves,” said Glynis Eckert, director of marketing and partnerships at the Kroc Center. “Parents (are scheduled to come in) December 18, to shop for their children.” Every year, the Salvation Army collects new toys to distribute to families from a dozen zip codes in surrounding neighborhood communities. There are 400 low income families registered this year. Some of them living in poverty. Combined, they have more than 700 children who depend on the donations to have gifts for Christmas. As of Sunday, some shelves were empty and there are only two boxes of toys that have been donated for children 10-12 years old. “This is an age group that is sometimes forgotten. People want to shop for little cute toys for children, and that’s great. But that leaves us scrambling for older children,” Eckert said. These two boxes hold the only donations for children ages 10-12. Many more are needed to meet the needs of registered families, December 14, 2025. The recent government shutdown, and uncertain economy are tough times that slashed the number of donations. “These toys stay right here in our community,” said Pamela George, Director of Youth Family Development. “Parents come in and shop for their children with dignity. Each family is pre-vetted and truly in need.” “All of us who have had great Christmases growing up know how important those are,” said Major Rob Birks, administrator and pastor of the Kroc Center. He is determined to keep the community connected for the children. “We are the conduit in the gift process,” Birks said. Donations can be dropped off at any venue in the Kroc Center at 6845 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92115. Other options include making a financial contribution and designating it for “Christmas toys”. Or, shop online using the Amazon and Walmart tabs on the Kroc Center’s website to overnight toys to the Kroc Center. “It’s my tenth Christmas here at the Salvation Army, and I’m so worried about 700 children who aren’t going to have enough under the tree this year. I really hope San Diegans can help us,” Eckert said. Some last-minute donations arrived, Sunday. Toys purchased online with overnight delivery to the Kroc Center, December 14, 2025. ...read more read less