The Salvation Army and
CHILDSPREE
Each year, at the first of August, The Salvation Army teams up with Mervyn’s to host ChildSpree, a back-to-school shopping spree for disadvantaged children in Tucson. This is a highly anticipated annual event that assists local gradeschool children in need..
Community volunteers and local celebrities donate their time to be shopping escorts and generous local retailers, businesses and community sponsors provide both financial asssistance as well as donations of backpacks, school supplies, hot food and new clothing. Our first Christmas ChildSpree was held on Dec. 9, 2006!
VOLUNTEER TO BE AN ESCORT - CALL 795-9671
THE KIDS OF CHILDSPREE
Approximately 100 to 130 children in need are selected annually for this program by The Salvation Army.
Selections are made through an application or referral process during the summer. Each child selected receives a $100 shopping budget at Mervyn's for new school clothes, an exclusive Mervyn's store discount, a new, Sidewinders backpack filled with donated goodies and school supplies, and a hot breakfast provided by McDonalds..
During the morning event, the children are paired with a team of volunteer escorts who help them shop for needed items. Following their purchases, they enjoy a celebratory hot breakfast with their new friends. Since most of these children have never had new clothing or new school supplies, this event is a special and memorable treat for them.
As one volunteer aptly described the event, "There is no greater sight than to see the joy on children’s faces as they receive their own, new clothing, backpack and goodies!" By the end of the day, when each child is presented their gifts, backpack and new items, they have also received a day of memories, designed to build self-confidence, as well as helping get their school year off to a successful start!
THIS YEAR'S CHILDSPREE WILL BE HELD ON SAT., JULY 19.
To learn more about ChildSpree, to Volunteer or Donate, please contact Tamara at 795-9671.
