Salvation Army officials in downtown San Diego
say they're slowly rebuilding their toy collection after a flood destroyed their inventory last week. KPBS Reporter Ana Tintocalis has more.
Last week's rainfall ruined more than 1,000 toys and books housed in a downtown warehouse. A clogged storm drain is to blame.
Salvation Army officials are appealing to residents across the county to donate anything they can -- from stuffed animals to gift cards.
Spokesman Suzi Woodruff Lacey says they've collected close to 300 toys and books since the flood. But she says they need a lot more to meet a December 17 deadline.
Woodruff Lacey:
It is a rush. I guess this year the point is that we have to ask more than usual. So we do need lots and lots of toys. We're off to a good start. But we're hoping people will continue to give.
The Salvation Army planned on giving toys to roughly 20,000 kids in San Diego County this year. Officials acknowledge it will be tough meeting that challenge because donations are down and more families in need.
Ana Tintocalis, KPBS News.
T hose interested in donating are encouraged to call the Salvation Army’s downtown office at (619) 231-6000. You can also log onto www.sandiego.salvationarmy.org
