The Salvation Army is kicking off its Red Kettle Campaign and the Army of Toys drive. Both annual fundraisers give to children and families in need during the holiday season.

“We love to see the smile on kids' faces. Especially those who wouldn't have a Christmas if we didn't help them,” said Paul Moore, Coordinator of the Salvation Army Mahoning County Area.

The Red Kettle Campaign is the Salvation Army's largest Fundraiser. Moore hopes to raise $105,000 to help support year round programs such as Community Meal, which has allowed the Salvation Army to serve over 40,000 meals.

“The need is great, as you know. The need. Because of the economy and the world situation, a lot of people need help. So, we're hoping the community will support us again, like they always do, and we can help as many kids as we can,” said Moore.

The Army of Toys drive has been a part of the valley for nearly two decades, and continues to grow every year. 

The drive focuses on giving food vouchers and toys to families, and is a collaboration with local business owners who help with the Salvation Army Christmas Program.

The goal is to collect 16,000 toys. 

“We started this about 18 years ago as just a little toy drive. We wanted to pick up toys and donate them. I wanted my kids to learn how giving was during the holiday seasons,” said Paul Gay, district manager of Midas Auto Service.

If someone donates a toy, or gives a donation valued at $20 or more, the donor will be entered into a drawing to win a $250 gift card.

Valley groups and businesses have been working closely with the Salvation Army as a way to give back to the community. During the kick off event, businesses like Haus Auto Group gave donations to the nonprofit.

“The community has helped our business grow and thrive over the years. And not to give it back would just be no good,” said Chris Haus, owner and operator of Haus Auto Group. “We do food drives, and clothes, and back to school supplies and all that stuff too. So it’s really not just a Christmas thing. It’s all year around.”

“It’s an amazing foundation to give at Christmas time for kids that aren’t getting any presents on Christmas Day,” said Gavin Haus, Haus Auto Group.

Members of the community also showed their support for the Salvation Army’s work by marching through the Southern Park Mall.

The Salvation Army is leaving a truck, donated by Haus Auto Group, in the Southern Park Mall. There is a QR code on the truck that allows anyone to donate online. Anyone who wants to donate also can drop off toys in the back of the truck.