AURORA | Veterans, military families and families with special needs children will have an opportunity to celebrate the holiday season together at the Southlands Mall during the Salvation Army’s Hearts Apart event.
“While the children play, their parents can sneak upstairs to pick out Christmas gifts for their kids,” said Jennifer Forker, communications and marketing director for the Salvation Army.
Designed as a festive gathering exclusively for military and special needs families, the event will offer holiday cheer, activities and a touch of magic for all attendees. The event is created to accommodate children with behavioral, physical or psychological needs.
The event, hosted by the Salvation Army’s Aurora Corps, will feature a range of family-friendly activities, including ice skating, movies and a playland for children. Parents will also have the opportunity to discreetly shop for toys and gifts for their children, ensuring surprises for Christmas morning.
The celebration will include live music, with the Salvation Army Brass Band performing traditional Christmas carols. Volunteers and Salvation Army officers will serve lunch, offering burgers and hot dogs for everyone.
Forker said the event’s goal is to create joy and connection among military families.
This private event is exclusively for veterans, military families and families with children who have special needs and is not open to the public. It represents the Salvation Army’s commitment to supporting those who serve and their loved ones, ensuring a memorable holiday season.
IF YOU GO
What: Hearts Apart
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 7
Where: Southlands Mall, 6155 S. Main St. in Aurora