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Thousands of children have toys thanks to generous community donations

“It makes me happy that other people are thinking of others during this time."

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Salvation Army handed out gifts to more than 8,000 kids to wrap up its 2020 Magical Toy Drive ahead of the holidays.

"I'm very excited," toy drive recipient Evelyn Reid said.

Families in need received everything from clothes, toys, school supplies and bicycles.

“I think they asked for a LOL doll, a baby dollhouse and clothes," Reid.

RELATED: WCNC Charlotte launches Magical Toy Drive

Volunteers also handed out grocery gift cards.

This year was a bit different for the Magical Toy Drive since 60% more families needed toys than in previous years because of COVID-19.

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The pandemic also forced the pick-up process to become a drive-thru.

Regardless, volunteers made sure every item on everyone's list was crossed off and every bag was filled to the brim, thanks to generous donations from the community.

RELATED: Charlotte business collects thousands of dollars for toy drive

“It makes me happy that other people are thinking of others during this time," toy drive recipient Cameron DeWalt said. 

You can still donate online to help the Magical Toy Drive.  Money collected now will go toward helping families in 2021.

To help make the Magical Toy Drive even more successful, WCNC Charlotte and the TEGNA Foundation announced a matching gift up to the first $10,000 donated online.  

“We know a lot of people are hurting this year,” WCNC Charlotte President and General Manager Joan Barrett said. “We’re heading into a time of year when the Salvation Army relies heavily on the public’s generosity. We understand that not everyone is in a position to give, but our community needs more support than ever. Every helping hand makes a huge difference.”

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