Salvation Army registering families for annual Christmas program

With 65 days until Christmas, hundreds of people lined up outside a Raleigh shopping center Monday in an effort to make the holidays a little brighter for children in need.

Posted 5:31 p.m. Oct 20, 2014 — Updated 10:43 p.m. Oct 20, 2014

RALEIGH, N.C. — With 65 days until Christmas, hundreds of people lined up outside a Raleigh shopping center Monday morning in an effort to make the holidays a little brighter for children in need.

The Salvation Army of Wake County this week is registering families for its annual Christmas Cheer program, which helps provide gifts to children under age 12 who are in families that are struggling financially.

Registration is all week at Longview Shopping Center, at 2116-D New Bern Ave. Times are 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Last year, nearly 8,800 children were signed up for the programs. A Salvation Army spokeswoman said Monday that more are expected this year.

Monday's line stretched out the door of the old Winn Dixie around the building and into the parking lot.

Emily Cambero, of Fuquay-Varina, was among those in line. This year is the first time she's seeking help.

"I came because I wanted help with my kids," she said. "I don't have a lot of money to get presents, and this is going to help me out way more than a lot of people think it is."

The names of children registered this week will have their names and gift wish lists submitted to the Salvation Army's Angel Tree, Christmas Stockings and Toy Shop programs.

They'll be available on Christmas trees at area malls and shopping centers beginning Nov. 21.

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