A long-running toy drive benefiting the New Kensington Salvation Army will be done a bit differently this year.

Choosing to postpone it because of the covid-19 pandemic wasn’t even considered, said Dr. Lawrence York, a New Kensington chiropractor who has hosted the toy drive since 1999.

“We knew — one way or another — we were going to get this done,” he said. “There’s more of a need to help families in our communities.”

York’s 21st annual toy drive will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 5 at Forza Motorcars, 2555 Leechburg Road, in Lower Burrell.

That’s a new location. And because of the pandemic, it won’t have the tailgate atmosphere with food for everyone who contributes.

Instead, it will be done as a drive-thru, with donors receiving gift certificates to local restaurants.

York said the toy drive was moved to Lower Burrell for better traffic flow than there would be at the Pittsburgh Ice Arena on Craigdell Road, where York’s office is and the event has been held before.

Donated toys need to be new and unwrapped. If they need batteries, donors are asked to include them if possible.

Checks and money orders made out to the Salvation Army and marked as being for the toy drive will also be accepted.

Last year, the toy drive collected a little over 1,100 toys and about $7,000 in monetary donations.

Lawrence is counting on residents to step up and give again this year, even if the drive doesn’t have the usual food and festivities.

“Our area is very, very generous when it comes to people in need, so I’m expecting a similar turnout, maybe a little bit better,” he said. “With all the bad things this year, we want to try to end it on a big, good one.”

This year’s toy drive is the first for Maj. Scott Flanders, who along with his wife, Maj. Leslie Flanders, and Lts. Matt and Stacy Stacy took over leadership of the New Kensington Salvation Army this year.

“Dr. York, he does a fabulous job,” Scott Flanders said. “It’s a real boon to our ability to help people and make Christmas special for not just the kids but for the families.”

The New Kensington Salvation Army serves communities from New Kensington to Apollo, Scott Flanders said.

More than 250 families with about 300 children are signed up to receive toys this year.

So far, just 50 toys donated

But, as of Tuesday, the group had about 50 toys to give.

Those interested in helping can give at the toy drive or visit the Salvation Army’s Facebook page to see what kind of toys are needed. They can order toys from Walmart and have them shipped to the group through the “Treasure for Children” program.

Those interested in giving or receiving toys can get information on the Salvation Army’s Facebook page or by calling 724-335-7221.

Toys will be distributed from about mid-December up to Christmas Eve.

York’s toy drive has been the main way the Salvation Army gets toys, Scott Flanders said. And, like York, he is also hopeful.

“God is good, and we’re going to make it. And we’re going to help everybody we can,” he said. “The community will come out again regardless of the restrictions. They’ll see the need, and they’ll contribute.”

Copyright ©2025— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)