Fire destroys all toys in Missouri Christmas donation shed, community rallies to help
A massive fire destroyed a shed filled with donated Christmas toys Tuesday morning in Salem, Missouri.
SALEM, Mo. - A massive fire destroyed a shed filled with donated Christmas toys Tuesday morning in Salem, Missouri.
The fire broke out at the Scenic Rivers Industries/Sheltered Workshop around 5 a.m. Tuesday, according to the Salem Fire Department.
Officials say the facility was being used to store gifts for a local Christmas toy drive to help families in need.
In wake of the devastating fire, community members are rallying with an outpour of support.
The St. James Police Department has partnered with a local Family Dollar to collect new Christmas gifts, which will be distributed as part of Salem's toy drive on Thursday.
Country Bob's Cafe in St. James is also donating 10% of its sales through Wednesday evening to support the effort, in addition to setting up a donation bin for toys and monetary donations.
Community members are also encouraged to drop off toys at any of the following locations:
- OSI Sheltered Workshop in Houston, Missouri
- Reality Executives (near Applebee's) in Rolla, Missouri
- Custard by C-Sue in Salem, Missouri
- St. James Police headquarters in St. James, Missouri
Organizers of the toy drive are asking for unwrapped toys for kids up to 12 years old, stocking stuffers and fleece blankets, along with winter essentials like winter coats, gloves, and hats.
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