Christmas may be over, but the gifts given to local children continue to make an impact.

This year, West Muskingum’s school board members and administrative staff continued its annual tradition of donating toys to the Salvation Army.

For school board president Albert Vousden, he says it’s a great way to give back to those in the area who might not have had anything for Christmas.

“It’s awesome. It’s a great chance for us to give back to the community,” Vousden said as he looked at the dozens of gifts being donated.

According to Mindy McCloy, office manager at the Salvation Army, many individuals and organizations choose to donate.

Some, like West Muskingum, donate to the toy room, while others sponsor a particular child.

Shoppers at the Colony Square Mall had the opportunity this year to select a name off the Angel Tree and fulfill a child’s wishlist.

Over 80 volunteers, including some local high school students, helped facilitate the process this year.

On distribution day when parents arrived to pick up their children’s gifts, they were also given wrapping paper and a turkey for the family on Christmas.

“We always end up crying,” McCloy said as she described the joy the staff and volunteers experienced getting to see the thankfulness of parents.

Many of the children are from families of low income or from families who have experienced a hardship that would make Christmas a financial struggle.

McCloy mentioned that there are even those who received presents from the Salvation Army when they were children, and now donate either their time or presents to ensure the next generation has something under the tree for Christmas.

“Many children have a Christmas because of those who donate to the Salvation Army. We are extremely fortunate to live in a very giving community,” McCloy added as she held back tears talking about the outreach she witnessed this year from those in our community.