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Target’s pilot proram donates gift cards to young shoppers.
As reported in New Frontier Vol. 27, No. 14, a new collaboration between Target and The Salvation Army supplied gift cards for children grades K-6 to enjoy a back-to-school shopping spree. Target chose 10 cities nationwide as test sites, with three in the Western Territory: Los Angeles, Calif.; Seattle, Wash.; and San Francisco, Calif.
In Seattle, the police officers and firefighters stepped off the streets and into Target stores to help 200 children shop for back-to-school supplies—all thanks to a generous donation from Target to The Salvation Army—and all for the kids.
“This is the first dress I’ve ever owned,” said Crystal, a 9-year-old who was chaperoned by King County Sheriff Sue Rahr. Crystal lives with her uncle who can’t afford to buy her new clothes. Rahr said the experience of helping the girl made an impact and she’s going to keep in touch with her.
This is just one of many similar stories from Target locations nationwide where children received this opportunity.
By lunchtime on August 11, the first Target/Salvation Army shopping spree day was winding down. The kids, waiting in line with ear-to-ear grins and bouncing up and down with excitement were proof enough that the day was a total success.
“It’s wonderful to give children this type of support,” said Chief of Police Luis Cobarruviaz, Redwood City, Calif. “It’s a real pleasure being a part of The Salvation Army to help the children.”
Several city police departments and students from UCLA volunteered to assist the young shoppers in Los Angeles.
When the dust settled, the back-to-school shopping spree event proved triumphant. The hope is that this success will pave the way for future shopping days.