The Christmas Bureau kicked off its annual Holiday Drive Thursday at Delaware Academy School.

Delaware Academy is one of 47 local schools that collect food for the Salvation Army's Christmas Bureau Distribution Day.

The Salvation Army expects to serve more than 3,000 needy families at this years Christmas Bureau Distribution Day, which is scheduled for December 21.

Over the past five years, more than 14,000 families in need have received food and gifts from the Salvation Army and its Christmas Bureau Partners.

Eligible low-income families receive a book, a toy, and a stocking stuffer for each child in the family.

Each family also receives a turkey and all the fixings for a holiday dinner along with extra food to help feed their children during school break.

More than 1,000 volunteers donate their time each year to help make Distribution Day a reality.

To participate in a food, toy or mini red kettle drive to support the Christmas Bureau, call 479-132 or contact the Salvation Army.