For the past 16 years, in partnership with The Salvation Army and two local radio stations, Bartells has hosted Toy N’ Joy, a program designed to collect new, unwrapped toys for local children during the holidays.

“The Salvation Army is honored to partner with Bartell Drugs again this holiday season, a tradition of 16 years,” said Col. Bill Dickinson, divisional commander of The Salvation Army in the Northwest. “We’ll pair the generous donations from Bartells customers with local families who otherwise may not have gifts below their trees. Thanks to Bartell customers, there will be many happy children on Christmas morning.”

Through the Salvation Army, volunteers gather to sort the toys collected during the drive. On Dec. 21, families supported by Salvation Army, are invited to CenturyLink Field Event Center to “shop” for the holidays at no cost to them.

Many in the area are unable to purchase gifts for their families during the holidays. These families connect to the program through The Salvation Army. With the support of the community, Bartells has been successful in helping make the season brighter for those families with a huge success in 2017 collecting over 4,500 toys.

There are two easy ways to donate to Toy N’ Joy. Customers can visit all 66 neighborhood Bartells locations, purchase a gift of their choice and deposit that toy into the red donation bins at the front of the store. Cash donations are also welcome at the register.

For more information, visit bartelldrugs.com.