FARGO — With inflation and the government shutdown straining families, the Salvation Army says it expects greater demand for its Christmas toy shop this holiday season.

The Salvation Army is asking families in need to register now for the program, which provides Christmas gifts for children 12 and younger. For the first time, the YMCA of the Northern Sky is partnering with the Salvation Army to expand donations to teens ages 13 to 17.

In 2024, the Salvation Army helped 500 families receive more than 2,700 toys. Officials say this year the need could be even greater.

"Well, we always anticipate a need at the season, but also this year, with the government shutdown, other factors affecting income for people, we're concerned there will be an increase of need, and so we want people to apply

See Full Page