SALISBURY — In years past, the Christmas Happiness Fund has allowed eligible families to receive $35 for each child to buy gifts.

But according to Salvation Army Capt. Janice Dahlin, that just wasn’t enough.

This year, eligible families will receive $50 for each child.

“It stayed because that’s what it had always been. We want these angels to receive at least two toys and a set of clothing,” Dahlin said.

She said for many families, this might be the only gifts they receive.

The Christmas Happiness Fund has been in place since 1952 after an appeal from then-Salisbury Post editor Spencer Murphy.

He asked area residents to help children who would not otherwise have a good Christmas. The donations from the community poured in and have continued every year since.

Every eligible family receives a gift card for each child to purchase toys or clothing.

The Salisbury Post collects the donations and turns them over to the Salvation Army. The local organization distributes gift cards that are used at a local business by the families.

This year, parents are able to buy gifts for their children from the local Walmart.

Contributions to Christmas Happiness may be delivered to the Salisbury Post, 131 W. Innes St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or mailed to Salisbury Post Christmas Happiness Fund, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, NC 28145-4639.

Make checks payable to Christmas Happiness Fund and indicate how you want your donation listed.

Today’s contribution is $1,000 from the Salisbury Post to kick off the holiday drive.

Contact reporter Shavonne Walker at 704-797-4253.