Rescue Mission meets toy goal for Christmas celebration

Durham, N.C. — The Durham Rescue Mission has surpassed its goal for toys to hand out at its annual giveaway on Wednesday, officials said.

After the group said it was about 1,000 toys short on Tuesday, officials said toys began flooding in.

Ernie Mills, executive director of the mission, said there were traffic jams outside of the mission as more than 3,000 toys were donated Tuesday afternoon. The group also received about 5,000 pieces of clothing.

"There are a lot of good people in Durham," Mills said.

Over 3,332 people turned out Wednesday – more than half the total 1,600 people served a year ago. The mission aimed to give each child up to four toys.

In 2008, the mission gave away more than 7,000 toys, 10,000 pieces of clothing and 850 bags of groceries at its annual celebration. More than 7,000 toys, 8,000 pieces of clothing, 3,000 meals and 1,022 bags of groceries were given away Wednesday.

People can still donate toys to the Durham Rescue mission, 1201 E. Main St. Donors can also give to the Raleigh Rescue Mission, at 314 E. Hargett St. The group said they are desperate for food donations this year, as well.

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Latest Comments

I can't believe these people complaining about poor children getting four toys.Shame on all of you!These may be the only toys they get all year.Be thankful for what you have.You could be in the mission line one day.I hope not.

scotlandlover
December 29, 2009 3:51 p.m.

I got the 'cris email' from Durham Rescue Mission tht were 1000 toys short a few days before Christmas. I found they were 1000 toys short - because they were giving four, yes 4, toys to each kid. Also, note on the donation page that even though you donate to a particular cause the page says......THEY WILL ACTAULLY DECIDE WHERE YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED. They are off my list now.

jp11
December 28, 2009 10:07 a.m.

Just count your blessing if you/your family are not in the receiving end. We surely do.

Just support the Charity that you feel that will do the most good. We typically support the Helping Hand Mission in Downtown Raleigh.

Da Toy Maker
December 23, 2009 5:15 p.m.

I will not contribute anything to the Durham Rescue Mission. They'd surely get more contributions and universal support if they dropped their required Jesus-homage as part of receiving their benefit.

hereandnow99
December 23, 2009 3:31 p.m.

Abuse of any charity is always going to be there. I have personally worked with DRM on their adult programs, and I can tell you that they offer people a chance to get back up when life has nocked them down. They are not perfect but they are worthy.