Handing out joy

The Salvation Army distributed about 1,500 toys to local children Monday during its Angel Tree toy giveaway, thanks to people in the community who contributed gifts to the program.

In addition, families were able to pick up Christmas baskets, 30-pound boxes with food including ham and all the fixings for dinner, at the temporary distribution site in Linda.

About 656 families in Yuba and Sutter counties signed up for aid this year, said Salvation Army Capt. Tom Stambaugh. The number increased only a little from last year, he said, but about 400 families were new to the program.

The Salvation Army is also having a coat giveaway starting at 9 a.m. Dec. 30 at the same distribution site, 1470 N. Beale Road.

Donations such as clothing for Salvation Army programs throughout the year can be dropped off at The Depot Family Crisis Center, 408 J St., Marysville.

For more information, call 216-4530.