There is a little more than two weeks before Christmas, and the Salvation Army is asking for more toy donations.

The organization has set up inside of the “Ironside Newark” building for a toy shop, where some of these donations are slowing starting to pile in.

“So far, we probably have about 7,500 that we’ve been able to secure. But we still need more,” says Maj. Jonathan Jackson.

This is only the first day of a major transformation from open space to full-on Christmas wonderland. The goal is to collect and bring in enough toys for 1,000 kids. This way the toy shop will be filled when families that have registered walk through to pick out Christmas gifts on Dec. 16.

Those who want to donate can stop at one of the Salvation Army's physical sites, like the on Central Avenue in Newark or donate online.

The Salvation Army says the need is growing among families and for much more than just toys. Inflation created high prices for groceries, forcing more families to the Salvation Army food pantries. The Salvation Army has changed their service to a choice pantry model to help.

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"We are seeing what communities actually need versus assuming what they need,” says Health Green, of the Salvation Army.

While more money goes to food, this often leads families leaning on the Salvation Army for rental assistance.

"Our rental assistance programs are still noticing an offshoot of COVID where folks are owing several months’ worth, doing our best to meet that need,” says Green.

The point is that families all around New Jersey are just trying make ends meet, which is why the Salvation Army is asking for help.

The toy donations will go to children between the ages of 1 and 12.