HUNTSVILLE – A significant donation from an association of Toyota dealers led to The Salvation Army’s large-scale food donation to low-income families.

The Toyota Lexus Minority Dealer Association provided The Salvation Army units across the country with a $200,000 grant for their 2023 Thanksgiving Day of Service, a food giveaway event. The distribution of food boxes provided food to in-need families who could face food insecurity during the week of Thanksgiving.

A total of 3,400 food boxes were distributed in the United States, translating into more than 20,000 meals, according to Claudia Bucher, Director of Development for The Salvation Army of Huntsville. The Thanksgiving Day of Service was conducted at 34 Toyota Lexus Minority Dealer Association dealership locations on Nov. 18.

In Huntsville, the Toyota Lexus Dealership’s address is 6580 University Drive NW.

The Salvation Army of Huntsville gave away 100 food boxes to selected Angel Tree clients. The boxes contained various shelf-stable food, containing stuffing, gravy, pie filling and canned vegetables. Each box also included a $15 gift card to Walmart for each box.

“We’ve seen a rise in the number of families needing help this year, and we don’t want any child to go without Christmas (gifts),” Maj. Richard Watts, Commanding Officer of The Salvation Army, said. Last year, The Salvation Army provided gifts to 1,045 children.

In addition, The Salvation Army’s Angel Trees represent children or senior citizens who may not receive a gift at Christmas without assistance or ‘adoption.’ Salvation Army Angel Trees are located at area malls and other businesses and are available for adoption until Dec. 8.

Residents can drop off adopted angel gifts at the Salvation office at 2114 Oakwood Ave. or Parkway Place Mall until Dec. 8. Gift distribution will occur from Dec. 18 to 20. To volunteer with distribution, call 256-536-5576.

“You can also shop for Angel Tree gifts from the comfort of your own home. Thanks to Walmart, donors can purchase gifts for an Angel Tree through Registry for Good,” Watts said. “Walmart will deliver these items directly to The Salvation Army.”

For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org.