Coat Collection, Thanksgiving Day Luncheon, Santa Claus Parade & Christmas Assistance Sign-Ups Highlight Busy Weeks Leading To Christmas

On Monday evening, November 21, The Salvation Army will join the City of Peoria and Midwest Food Bank at the Peoria Civic Center for a food and coat collection from 6-8 pm in the great hall. This will be done in conjunction with the collection at the Santa parade later in the week. “Mayor Ardis met with us and the suggestion was made to have a pre-parade drop-off for those who might miss the parade,” said Rich Draeger, Assistant Development Director for The Salvation Army.

Thursday, The Salvation Army will hold its annual Thanksgiving Day luncheon at the Sylvia Fites Family Services Center from 11:30-1pm. About 200 traditional Thanksgiving meals will be served, along with musical entertainment.

Then on Friday, November 25, The Salvation Army will again participate in the Santa Claus Parade. Salvation Army officers, staff, and volunteers will be collecting coats from parade goers, as well as food for the Midwest Food Bank.

Meanwhile, sign-ups for various Christmas assistance programs, including the Toy Shop and Share the Spirit Party are continuing at the Sylvia Fites Center Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 1-4 pm, and Thursday from 1- 7 pm.

For more information on these upcoming events, please contact Rich Draeger at 655-1348 or 253-9909. To donate to the Tree of Lights Campaign, mail your check to The Salvation Army, PO Box 1468, Peoria, IL 61655, go online to www.usc.salvationarmy.org/heartland, or call (309) 655-7220 to charge on American Express, MasterCard or Visa.