Dec 7, 2007 2:55 pm US/Eastern
Salvation Army Pulls Used Toys From Miami Shelves
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
If you're planning on donating to your local Salvation Army this holiday season you might run into some trouble, at least when it comes to donating toys. The organization said they will no longer accept any used toys as of Friday and are pulling toys from all of their South Eastern U.S. locations.
Workers at Florida's 59 thrift stores were instructed Friday to remove all used toys from the shelves immediately due to recent recalled toys from China. The initiative does not include new or vintage toys or bicycles.
The organization says it doesn't have the manpower to sift through every toy individually to determine if it has been recalled, so they are removing all of them.
Divisional Secretary Major Kenneth Morris says it is a necessary step to protect patrons and their children.
Despite the new guidelines, Miami Division Captain Erik Nickell still encourages donors to give all that they can this time of year.
"During this season of giving, toy donations are well intended, but simply not an option at this time. We will continue to accept clothing, used furniture and household items," said Nickell. "We are always appreciative of the positive intentions behind all donations."
The action was initiated early last week after the Salvation Army issued a state-wide directive resulting from Consumer Product Safety Commission findings of unsafe levels of lead in numerous Chinese-made products. Consumers are encouraged to donate other items that provide tremendous benefit to the community and store visitors.
Click Here For The Latest Toy Recall List
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