A local charity is feeling the impact of tough economic times this holiday season. The Salvation Army on Wednesday is hosting its annual gift giveaway for pre-registered families, but contributions from the community fell short compared to previous years.
Salvation Army Director of Community Services Linda Lopez expects up to 9,000 people to benefit from the distribution, including 5,000 kids. But Lopez said the organization received fewer than expected donations to stretch across more than 2,000 households.
"I think we'll have enough to serve everyone, but we have light donations this year," Lopez said.
Lopez said the lower amount of donations is possibly due to the impact of inflation.
"I think that people overall are feeling the pinch of sort of, you know, higher prices on basics," she said.
Families who meet income eligibility and registered with the organization ahead of time will receive toys, books, food, gift cards and other holiday presents at the event. People who wish to support the organization can still contribute cash to the Salvation Army's holiday-timeRed Kettle Campaign.