Salvation Army Accepting Applications for Christmas Assistance

La Porte County residents can request holiday help for food and toys

The Salvation Army is now accepting applications for assistance from individuals and families in La Porte County who need help with holiday food and/or toys this Christmas. Those needing assistance are encouraged to apply online at www.saangeltree.org now through December 5.

In-person applications will also be accepted on select dates. At the La Porte location (3240 Monroe Street), residents can apply on Friday, November 7 and 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and on Friday, November 14 and December 5 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. At the Michigan City location (1201 S. Franklin Street), application dates are Wednesday, November 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Monday, December 1 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Applicants must provide a photo ID, proof of address, and proof of name and birthdate for each child aged 0–14. All household members should be listed to ensure accurate food distribution. Families without children may apply for food assistance only. Those applying online should select “no” when asked for an invitation code.

Major Becky Simmons, Corps Officer for The Salvation Army, explained the importance of the Angel Tree and food assistance programs during the holidays. “For many families in our community, Christmas is a time of stress, not joy. The rising cost of living has made it even harder for parents to afford gifts or extra food,” she said. “Our goal is to relieve some of that burden and bring back the joy of the season for children and families who need it most.”

In addition to those applying for assistance, The Salvation Army is calling on community members to help make the season brighter for others by volunteering, hosting an Angel Tree, or making a financial contribution.

“We need people to come alongside us, whether it’s ringing a bell, sponsoring a toy drive, or making a donation,” said Major Simmons. “It’s in these simple acts of kindness that we see the true spirit of Christmas.”

Those interested in volunteering or hosting an Angel Tree in either Michigan City or La Porte can contact Jessica O’Brien at jessica.obrien@usc.salvationarmy.org or 219-874-6885.

For questions about the application process, residents can also call 219-874-6885 (Michigan City) or 219-326-5342 (La Porte). Financial contributions to The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign can be made at donate.salvationarmyindiana.org/michigancity or donate.salvationarmyindiana.org/laporte or in person/by mail at 1201 S. Franklin Street, Michigan City or 3240 Monroe Street, La Porte.