Ooltewah Samaritin Center Distributes Toys
Still seeks donations
Last year the Samaritan Center in Ooltewah helped 272 children. This year they will likely help even more. The Center is one of the few local agencies that also helps parents with toys for teens, so appointments here are in demand.
Five days have been set aside for Christmas toy distribution this year: December 1, 3, 8, and 16 from 9:30 am to 4 pm and December 10 from 9:30 am to 8 pm. The first two and a half days are booked solid, but there are still spots available in the other days if people call soon.
Before families receive toys, they must go through a financial screening process. They will need to bring to the appointment a photo ID, proof of residence in our service area, all bills and expenses for the past 30 days, proof of income (at least three check stubs) for the past 30 days, their bank statement, a food stamp verification letter if they are on food stamps, and all of the family’s social security cards.
Clients will have a preliminary appointment when they are screened financially and then a second appointment when they come to choose toys for their children. During this time of year, the Center sets up an entire room of new toys where parents can choose their children’s gifts. Parents are asked not to bring their children to these appointments so that the kids can be surprised on Christmas day.
At present, the Center has a huge need for sports toys and toddler toys.
Visual on Dec. 1, 3, 8, 10, & 16: Room set up exclusively for Christmas toys distribution and maybe a parent in need choosing their supplies. Parent coverage cannot be guaranteed because we will ask the families their permission on a case-by-case basis depending on when your news crew stops by.
The Samaritan Center is a social services agency in Ooltewah that provides emergency assistance for those in need such as help with food, rent/utilities, clothes, furniture, and more. Founded in 1986, the Center has been expanding its services ever since. Last year we helped more than 4,700 people. This year we expect to help even more.
