HEADLINE: Salvation Army in dire need of Angel Tree donors

 

Staff Reports

 

As Christmas approaches, officers with the Salvation Army of Washington are worried that there will be a large number of forgotten angels this year. Over 400 needy children, ages infant through 14, have been approved to receive assistance through the local Corps’ Angel Tree program. While more than half of the children’s names have been taken by prospective donors, more than 100 children remain unclaimed. Furthermore, very few of the donors who committed to adopt Angel Tree children have returned gifts to the Corps.

“Last year at this same time, donors had already turned in gifts for nearly 200 children,” said local Corps officer Lt. Bruce Rabon. “Four days before the Dec. 12 deadline, we had gifts for fewer than 20 children.”

The typical Angel Tree shopping list includes the child’s coat, shirt, pants and shoe sizes, along with one or two toys that interest the child. Particularly popular gift requests this year are anything associated with the hit children’s movie “Frozen” and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

“At this point we’re hoping for a finish-line miracle from members of the community,” Rabon said.

To adopt a child, Angel Trees can be found at the Chocowinity Volunteer Fire Department, Wal-Mart in Washington and Williamston, Bank of America on Carolina Avenue in Washington, or at the Salvation Army store at 112 E. Seventh St., Washington. The Salvation Army will also accept monetary donations for Angel Tree children and have its staff and volunteers shop for the children.

For more information, contact Lt. Goldie Rabon at 252-946-2523.