Target and The Salvation Army Team Up for Shopping Spree

Murphy Akres' daughters love clothes and Monday his daughters grabbed some new gear for their return to school in August.

The Salvation Army and Target joined forces this summer and gave some families in need $80 gift cards for back to school supplies.

"It helps me out since I'm injured from work so that's another plus to it," Akres said. "It's been a blessing."

Murphy's daughters were among the 60 kids across Northwest Arkansas that received the help.

"It's been a good opportunity not just for us but for other parents as well," Akres said.

Without these programs, the proud Dad said it would not be easy. "Would they be able to get everything they need? Probably not."

Salvation Army Lieutenant Officer Josh Robinett said he knows the program's benefits extend far beyond the school year.

"Many kids in the area can't afford to have school supplies or school clothes. When we do this, we invest in our youth and when you invest in our youth, you really can't go wrong there," Robinett said. "This is a perfect way for them to have the need met for them as they go back to school prepared and ready to enter the classrooms."

Dad said the Salvation Army looks looks after his kids even once school starts. "They actually pick them up and take them to all the programs they have through this week. They help us out a lot."

For all that, he's thankful.

"I love these programs."

To get your family involved in the programs like the "Target's Back to School Shopping Spree with The Salvation Army," call (479) 521-2151 and ask about character core building.