The Salvation Army of Lee County has announced registration dates for the 2009 holiday season assistance program, Christmas Cheer. Families who would like to receive assistance during the holidays must register and complete the application process.

The registration location, dates and times and requirements are as follows:

WednesdayOctober 28 9:00 am – Noon

Thursday October 29 9:00 am – Noon

Friday October 30 9:00 am – Noon

ThursdayNovember 5 9:00 am – Noon and

ThursdayNovember 5 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

FridayNovember 6 9:00 am – Noon

SaturdayNovember 7 9:00 am Noon

Monday November 23 9:00 am – Noon

Location: The Salvation Army, 10291 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919. For information call 278-1551.

What to bring:

Applications will not be taken without the items below:

1. Adults: a. Valid Florida driver’s license or Lee County picture ID

b. Social Security card

2. Children: a. Social Security cards or

b. Birth certificates for each child.

3. Proof of: a. Income

b. Benefits

Christmas Cheer-a community-wide effort–is The Salvation Army’s largest outreach event each year. Generous Lee County residents donate toys through several groups: the US Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots, the United States Postal Workers, area media outlets, retail businesses and The Salvation Army.

The Army organizes an application program and distributes the collected toys, gifts and food through its Christmas Cheer program to less fortunate families.

Last year, for example, over 40,000 gifts were distributed to children and 4,770 homes received food. The Salvation Army’s familiar red kettles with volunteer bell ringers provides another way for shoppers to donate to Christmas Cheer.

For registration information, or to volunteer to assist with applications or holiday bell ringing, contact The Salvation Army’s offices at 278-1551.

Source: Salvation Army