Money not needed for families to select gifts at Salvation Army Toy Shop

A former department store at the Cary Town Center doubled as Santa’s workshop as families were able to cart away bags full of gifts they selected from the Salvation Army Toy Shop.

More than 7,000 children registered with the Salvation Army for the Christmas Cheer program that includes the Angel Tree program and toy distribution.

“I’m happy to get these presents,” said recipient Clarisse Makema.

“It’s all about the children, certainly around this time of year, and making sure that they are happy and those families that aren’t able to provide for those children as such, we are able to help in that capacity,” said Salvation Army spokesperson David Ware.

Ilsa Paez was loading up the family vehicle with gifts for herself and her five siblings while 11-year-old Vainqueur Makema was all smiles as she picked out a new bike.

“I’m really happy because on my other bike the tire popped, so I haven’t had a bike for a long while and now I actually get one,” Makema said.

For the first time this year, the Salvation Army was also able to assist homeless children through Project CATCH (Community Action Targeting Children who are Homeless). Families living in homeless shelters or hotels got the chance to visit the toy shop Thursday.