Salvation Army distributes toys, food to families

Volunteers with the Salvation Army have been busy all month collecting food and toys for those in need. On Wednesday morning, their efforts were rewarded by seeing the smiling faces of the families they're helping this Christmas.

For the past month, toys and food have been collected and stored at the Colorado Army National Guard's armory, located next to the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery.

Volunteers with the Salvation Army worked hard to fill boxes with specific toys that were on children's Christmas lists.

On Wednesday morning, parents who requested help for the holidays came to the armory to pick up toys for their kids; with about a week left leading up to the big day.

Families who requested food assistance were also there for some holiday help. A line of cars was outside the armory and National Guard members were there to help load the food orders.

This is the fifth year donations have been stored at the armory, and guard members continue to play a large role in spreading Christmas cheer.

"There's always a need for volunteers, and you know, it just helps strengthen this community if people do come out and volunteer," explained Master Sergeant Tim Smith, with the Colorado Army National Guard.

"It gives you a good feeling, it puts you in the Christmas spirit and it gives you a good feeling that your helping out your community," Smith added.

Distribution continues Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Several dignitaries with the army will be arriving in a Black Hawk helicopter at 9:00 a.m. to help with the final push.