Christmas is a time to remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus, and the gift of love and purpose he offers us. The Bible says Jesus is “the hope of all the world” (Matthew 12:21) because he offers us peace, wholeness, unconditional love and meaning for our lives.

Although Christmas is meant to be a time of celebration and joy, if finances are tight, it can be challenging, stressful and isolating.  Whatever challenges you have faced this year, The Salvation Army believes there is still a reason to hope, and we are here to help alleviate this stress for families and seniors struggling financially.  

 Program Overview:

• Our priority is to support London and area seniors (55+) and families with children aged 0-12 who are struggling financially
• Toys/gifts are provided for children aged 0-12
• A gift card based on the size of your household will be provided to help with the costs of your Christmas dinner
• We do not accept applications from households who have applied for another Holiday/Christmas Assistance Program

Application opens November 1 – 30 (or until all appointments are booked) and can be made online or by calling 519-660-5884 ext. 9.

Appointments to pick up your gift card and/or toys will be made at the time you apply – please be sure you don’t miss this step. 

Appointments will be offered Dec 11 – 15 and 18-20.

Pick-Up Location: Western Fair District Agriplex (845 Florence Street, London ON). While your online application will confirm Hillcrest,  all pick ups will be at the Western Fair District Agriplex.

NEW THIS YEAR – Instead of receiving a pre-packed bag of toys/gifts, parents/guardians of children 0 – 12 will be given the opportunity to select their own toys/gifts.  One of our friendly shopping elves will assist you with understanding our guidelines and helping you make selections that you know will put a smile on your child’s face on Christmas morning!  

In order to make this a good experience for you:

• Please be sure to be on time for your appointment! If you are late, or do not show up, we may not be able to provide you with another appointment.
• Please be sure to bring valid confirmation of address and ID for everyone in your household.
• We encourage you to bring your own bags to take your toys/gifts home, however, clear plastic bags will be available if needed.
• Only 1 family member per household can enter our Toy Shop area.  Please make care arrangements for your children as we are not able to provide supervision while you are choosing gifts.
• Our selection changes based on the donations we receive. New donations come in daily throughout the Christmas season, right up to the last day of distribution. We can never guarantee that we will have a specific toy on hand, but we’re pretty sure you will always be able to find something your child will love.