OGDENSBURG – Donations for children’s clothing for the Salvation Army’s Christmas program have been pouring in recently, thanks to the City of Ogdensburg, businesses and community members.

Organizer Major Patti Murray, pastor of the Salvation Army, said they had only received clothing to meet the needs of 21 of the 281 children whose families applied for the giving program this year, when she finished taking applications a few weeks ago.

People have come to apply for the Salvation Army’s Christmas program for the first time this year, said Murray.

“I have never had to ask for help before. I’ve always been the one to give, but now I need help,” some applicants told Murray.

The families receiving assistance increased from about 30 last year to 120 families this year, said Murray.

“I was wondering and asking God how I was going to help all of these children,” she said.

“WWNY-TV had recently aired a story of the Salvation Army’s need for more donations to their clothing drive. Right then in walks Brittanie Kelso, Deputy Clerk of the City of Ogdensburg, and my prayers were answered,” said Murray.

“Kelso asked how many children were still needing clothing. She returned with the Ogdensburg Mayor and City Manager, and a $15,000 check. That was overwhelming,” said Murray.

The donation was part of the $194,000 American Rescue Plan Act given to the City of Ogdensburg for pandemic relief to help nonprofits and small businesses.

A few days later Cheryl Richardson, of H. Richardson and Sons Utilities, Ogdensburg, called the Salvation Army, saying she would like to match the City of Ogdensburg’s donation, said Murray.

“New this year, we set up an Angel Tree in Ogdensburg’s Walmart, with tags listing specific clothing and sizes needed. After the news went out, the Salvation Army donation bin filled up every day,” she said.

Thanks to the community support, each child will receive a coat, boots or sneakers, pants, and PJs. Also, stocking stuffers and three toys will be donated by Toys for Tots.

Pastors Patti and her husband, Scott Murray, are also hoping to be able to restart the soup kitchen with an indoor eating option when COVID protocols allow it, they said.

Donations are still appreciated. The donations help fund the Salvation Army work all year long.

“I am really amazed at the generosity of the people in Ogdensburg. Their generosity has completely overwhelmed me,” said Patti Murray.