CBS3's 'Joy Of Sharing' Helps Local Families Surprise Their Children On Christmas
By Syma Chowdhry
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Carmen Picart is picking up toys from the Salvation Army in North Philadelphia for six children, ages two to seven.
"It's a blessing that we got the toys with everything I have to do for them," says Picart.
Two of her kids have special needs, and that makes it tough for her to work.
A couple of years ago, Carmen volunteered for the Salvation Army. Now, she's on the receiving end.
"I was like, 'Let me go in there and get my kids more than just thrift store toys,'" she says.
Each year, the Salvation Army gives out brand new toys to needy families during the holidays.
"We can give them quality gifts that will help their children to see that Christmas is a special time," says Major Hester Dixon, of the Salvation Army.
The toys are arranged by age, group and gender – and many toys you see came from CBS3's Joy of Sharing program.
"I really appreciate what Joy of Sharing does; it's just mind-boggling," Major Dixon says.
CBS3 collected toys all month long and then loaded them onto the Salvation Army truck, ready to bring smiles on Christmas morning.
"It's just awesome that people would care so much about a child they will never know or see that , at least on one day, [that child] can feel loved," Major Dixon adds.
For those who donated a toy, Carmen shares this message:
"Buying even one toy means a lot to a family that really doesn't have anything at all. This is a blessing to us. Thank you so much."
And that's truly the "joy of sharing."
Check Out These Other Stories: