FARGO — With the pandemic putting an extra financial strain on families, the Salvation Army helped some with their Christmas gifts.
The nonprofit, along with the Fargo Police Department, handed out meals and toys to families waiting in their cars in the Fargodome parking lot Monday, Dec. 21.
This is a yearly event for the Salvation Army, but officers said the need for gifts like food and toys has jumped up at least 30% from last year.
"There is hope, and there's no shame," said Capt. Jeanette Jensen with the Salvation Army. "We all find ourselves in the same boat. This year has been rough, but somebody's here, and we have your back."
Jensen said although providing for all family members in need is important during the holidays, it's especially true for the children.
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"Kids don't understand the pandemic," she said. "They don't understand why things aren't normal, so why should Christmas be different? There shouldn't be a reason kids can't open something under the tree."
Over 800 families registered with the Salvation Army to get gifts Monday.
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