MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Salvation Army has opened its distribution center to parents who need help putting gifts under the tree this Christmas. 

The Salvation Army says the demand for donated toys this year was unusually large. 

"We had a record 12,700 kids signed up for Christmas assistance. We're on day three and we expect about 3,000 more children yet today. So parents are coming in and picking out gifts for their children and we're making sure that they have enough to choose from," said Maj. Angie Pennington, Program Coordinator for the Salvation Army. 

CBS 58 was one of the sponsors for the toy collection. Our sincere thanks to everyone who helped by donating a toy and playing a role in helping area families have a merry Christmas.