Last Chance to Spread Holiday Joy in Augusta’s Angel Tree Program

Last Chance for Holiday Magic in Augusta!

As December rolls on, Augusta is embracing the festive spirit, but there’s a pressing matter on everyone’s mind: kids in need! The Salvation Army in Augusta is sprinting towards the finish line of its annual Angel Tree Program. The goal? To ensure that every child experiences a magical Christmas filled with joy and presents!

What’s the Buzz About the Angel Tree?

For those who might not be familiar, each tag on the Angel Tree symbolizes a child who could use a sprinkle of holiday cheer. This year, the program has seen a remarkable uptick, with an additional 400 children added to the list. Major Jonathan Raymer, the Augusta Area Commander, explains, “A big part of the increase is due to the aftermath of Helene, and many families are still feeling the financial impacts.”

In the spirit of giving, Major Raymer emphasizes the commitment of the Salvation Army to stretch their resources as far as they can. “We know that these are tough times for many, and we want to be there for them,” he adds. But the clock is ticking—there’s still hope for those who want to get involved!

How Can You Make a Difference?

If you’ve been pondering how you can spread some holiday joy, now is the perfect time to adopt an angel. The program is quickly wrapping up, but you still have a chance to select a child from the tree, discover their needs and wishes, and then shop for gifts tailored just for them. Remember, every small gesture counts!

When you choose a child’s tag, you’ll find details about their clothing sizes and the toys they’ve dreamed of receiving. Once you’ve picked out your gifts, simply return them unwrapped in the bag provided to one of the Salvation Army Family Stores or the Kroc Center. Major Raymer reassures us, “We’ll ensure that each gift lands in the right hands.”

What if You Can’t Adopt an Angel?

Maybe you’re short on time or resources? Don’t worry! The Salvation Army welcomes donations of individual items that can help out those “forgotten angels.” This means that even if someone had to back out of their commitment, you can still chip in to create a full bag of goodies for a child in need.

“If gifts don’t come back in time, we fill in the gaps,” Major Raymer clarifies. “Our intention is to guarantee that every child signed up receives something special.” When you drop your donations, the hard-working volunteers at the Salvation Army work tirelessly to sort everything and prepare them for distribution.

Drop-off Details

Ready to help out? Make sure you bring your donations to the following locations by Friday, December 13th: the Kroc Center, the Riverwatch Family Store, or the North Augusta Family Store. It’s an easy way to make a world of difference in a child’s life this holiday season!

The Beautiful Impact of Community

As Major Raymer wraps up his thoughts, he reflects on the heartwarming impact this program has on families. “When families come to pick up their gifts, we box them up and load them into their cars so they can wrap them and put them under their tree. It’s about creating those cherished memories,” he shares.

This year, let’s join together as a community and make sure no child goes without the joy of Christmas. Whether you adopt an angel or donate items to help spread the cheer, your kindness can transform this holiday season into a real miracle for children in Augusta. Remember, every little bit counts, and together we can ensure that every child has a holiday to remember!