LOUISVILLE, Ky. — St. Vincent de Paul is collecting toys and clothes for hundreds of families this holiday.

This is just the beginning of a donation drive that will impact hundreds of families in Louisville. Donna Young is the Director of Volunteers at St. Vincent De Paul. For 25 years, first as a volunteer, and then on payroll, Young has helped thousands of families have a brighter holiday.

“Most of these toys that you see here were donated by Holy Trinity’s 7th grade class,” Young told Spectrum News 1. Young’s goal is to collect coats, clothing and gifts for nearly 1,000 children. 

St. Vincent is also distributing small Christmas trees to local businesses and organizations with donation cards attached to the branches. Employees can pick a card which has suggestions for gifts like coats, pajamas, jeans for boys and girls and a corresponding age group.

Young says unfortunately even more families are in need this year than in previous. “The cost of gasoline, the cost of groceries people really need, and with the holidays, I’m sure they are really appreciate of what we are doing so they can provide Christmas for their children,” Young said.

In December, referred families will visit the St. Vincent Santa Shop, a tradition that’s been happening for more than two decades. “On Sunday, Dec. 11 they will actually be able to get to come to and go through our donations and pick out outfits for their children,” Young explains.

These gifts will be free to participating families.