Dec 23, 2009

At Toy Shop, spirit of giving thrivesBy Dale VincentUnionLeader.com

Manchester – This is the first time Connor Robert has volunteered as an escort for “shoppers” at the Salvation Army Toy Shop, and he was able to provide a unique service for some parents looking for the perfect toy for a young son.

“I can usually pick the right one,” said the Bedford 10-year-old, who was among dozens of volunteers of all ages who worked behind the age-specific gift tables and escorted parents selecting items at the Center of New Hampshire exposition center yesterday.

This is the 50th year that the New Hampshire Union Leader Santa Fund for the Salvation Army has provided funding for the Toy Shop and other assistance for families in need.

That support is especially important this year, according to Salvation Army Manchester Corps Maj. Joyce Hartshorn, because there was a 30 percent increase in applications for holiday assistance. Last year, 915 families were helped. This year the number is over 1,250.

Tammi, who is going through a divorce, said she had a very bad day Tuesday. “I lost my job and my car died,” she said. Thanks to friends, she was able to get a ride to the Toy Shop to select gifts for her 13-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son. Robert was her escort.

“He’s helping me out, picking out my son’s toys,” she said.

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