CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- It was a festive sweater day inside Hendrick Motors of Charlotte on East Independence Boulevard Wednesday.
Hendrick Automotive Group has partnered with WCNC-NBC Charlotte and the Salvation Army to collect toys for children in need this year.
Major Larry Broome, the Area Commander of the Charlotte Salvation Army, says this toy drive keeps families from having to make the tough decision of paying rent and buying food or making sure their children have presents on Christmas day.
"We use the toys that are donated here to be able to make sure that every child has a lot of good things they can open under the tree,” said Major Broome.
The Salvation Army’s mission fits in perfectly with what the Hendrick Automotive Group is trying to achieve through their “Hendrick Cares,” program.
"This is really the heart of who we are at the Hendrick Automotive Group. It really started with our Chairman Rick Hendrick about 40 years ago,” said Tyler Johnson, General Manager.
Their hope is to collect $14,000 toys. For Johnson, helping families hits close to home.
"I think it's the little things in life, especially with my kids, I know a little toy, or just a little truck, or just something really small can really make their day and make their holiday. It makes us feel great to play a really small part in that,” he said.
Right now the goal is to collect as many toys as possible, but the magic really begins when the Salvation Army distributes them to mothers, fathers and grandparents across Charlotte.
"It does bring a lot of smiles, sometimes a lot of tears,” said Major Broome.
"Just provide a little bit of help, and a little bit of joy. It's awesome. It's what we're all about at Hendrick,” said Johnson.
You can join in on the effort to bring a smile to a child in need this holiday season. Drop off new, unwrapped toys at your local Salvation Army, WCNC NBC Charlotte Studios or one of 20 various Hendrick Automotive Group locations through December 10.