The Salvation Army
CHILD SPREE
Each year, at the end of July and again before Christmas, The Salvation Army teams up with a local retailer to host a Child Spree, a special shopping spree for disadvantaged children in Tucson. These are highly anticipated annual events that assistchildren of all ages.
Traditionally held at a Super Target, over 100 pre-selected children in-need are assisted with new clothing, donated backpacks and needed supplies!.
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, food and new clothing.
This Year's Christmas ChildSpree was on December 17, 2011.
THE KIDS OF CHILDSPREE
Approximately 100 to 130 children in need are selected annually for this back-to-school 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 for new school clothes, an exclusive store discount, a new, backpack filled with donated goodies and school supplies.
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 treat 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!
VOLUNTEERS: Over 250 volunteers are needed to help children shop on this special day. Call 795-1395 for more information
DONATIONS: Each child receives a muinumum of $100 in new clothing and shoes. Financial donations make this possible. To Donate Call 795-9671.
CLIENTS: For children who need assistance with Child Spree, contact the school counselor's or by registering for the annual Toy assistance programs at 792-1629.
Special Thanks to our ChildSpree Partner Alcoa Fastening Systems.
To learn more about the Back-2-School Spree, CHristmas Spree or to Volunteer or Donate,
please leave a message for Tamara at 795-1395 or Tamara.McElwee@usw.salvationarmy.org.
