The date and the location is set for the 22nd annual Q98.5 12 Hours of Salvation Army Toy Drive, now all we need is you. Here's everything you need to know to help us put smiles on the faces of so many precious Rockford children this Christmas:

  • WHERE: Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall by the CherryVale Mall
  • WHEN: Friday, December 7, 2018, from 7 a.m. til 7 p.m. (We will actually begin collecting toys at 5 a.m.)
  • WHAT: Bring by a new unwrapped toy for a less fortunate boy or girl
  • WHY: There are thousands of parents in the Stateline that cannot provide gifts for their children this Christmas unless we help them. 

What kinds of toys are needed?

Toys for boys and girls, ages infant to 15 years old. Sometimes we forget that infants and pre-teens need gifts too, so please keep them in mind while you're out shopping.

How does The Salvation Army find the children who will be provided toys?

Needy families register ahead of time for Christmas assistance from the Salvation Army, and then they come "shop" for their children after the toys are collected and sorted by age and gender.

Which counties will benefit from these toys?

Winnebago County

How does The Salvation Army determine if the families are truly needy?

Each need is treated on an individual basis.

How much should I spend per toy?

There is no bottom limit, every donation helps.

Why must the gifts be unwrapped?

The toys are sorted and placed in the toy shop by gender and age.

If the toy is electric do I need to buy batteries, also?

It is helpful, but not required. Our friends at Batteries Plus Bulbs donates hundreds of batteries to go with the toys that need them.

If I am unable to make it to the 12 Hours of Salvation Arm Toy Drive, can I donate somewhere else?

Toys can be dropped off at 416 S. Madison, 210 N. Kilburn, or the Giving Tree at CherryVale Mall located by US Bank.

I can donate money, instead?

There will be Kettles at the Toy Drive to receive cash and checks.

Can I get a receipt for tax purposes?

Our development office will send a tax acknowledgement letter or receipt.

We are so looking forward to seeing you at the Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall on Friday, December 7. Have fun shopping, and thank you in advance for helping so many deserving families in this community. You rock!

Catch Lil Zim on ‘Q98.5 Mornings with Lil Zim & JB’ on Q98.5 from 5:00 a.m. to 10 a.m. Follow her on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook

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