The Pike County Salvation Army Service Center in Troy is sponsoring “Fill the Truck Day at Walmart from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Friday at Walmart in Troy.

Kim May, Service Center director, said that “Fill the Truck Day” is now an annual event designed to collect donations of coats and toys for children during the Christmas season.

“This is the second year for ‘Fill the Truck Day,’ which is a national event for the Salvation Army,” May said. “It’s a convenient way for those who want to help make Christmas special for children in need. On Friday, we will have a cardboard Salvation Army truck at the entrances of Walmart and invite shoppers to purchase a coat or toy to put in the truck as they leave the store.”

The toys may be big or small. The coats may be any size and boys or girls.

“There are a lot of children in Pike County that will have a better Christmas and keep warmer this winter because someone cared enough to help ‘Fill the Truck,’” May said. “And, all of the toys and coats will used for children in need right here in Pike County. The Salvation Army is committed to helping people at home.”

May said to receive the toys or coats donated to the “Fill the Truck Day,” families must meet the qualification standards set by the Salvation Army.

“In addition to individual applications, we get referrals from DHR and churches around the county,” she said.

The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle campaign is its biggest fundraiser and May expressed appreciation to all of those who contribute.

“The Red Kettle campaign is going good and we appreciate those who drop in dimes and dollars,” she said. “Like always, the money donated in Pike County stays here to help friends and neighbors.”

May also expressed appreciation to all of those adopted the angels on the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree.

“About 160 children were adopted,” she said. “Walmart, Lockheed Martin, Woodmen of the World, Troy University and St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church adopted children as did many individuals. We thank them all.”