Chattanooga’s Angel Tree Program Kicks Off, Spreading Holiday Cheer
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – The air is filled with the sweet sounds of the holiday season, and in Chattanooga, an annual tradition to help children in need has officially kicked off! This past Saturday, the Salvation Army hosted the launch of their Angel Tree Program at Hamilton Place Mall, and they need your help more than ever to make this Christmas special for many families.
What’s the Angel Tree Program All About?
The Angel Tree Program allows kindhearted volunteers to select a child and purchase Christmas gifts tailored just for them. This initiative aims to bring joy to children who might otherwise go without during the holiday season. Maj. Douglas McClure, an area commander for the Chattanooga Salvation Army, shared some heartwarming statistics, saying, “Over 5,000 children were helped in this area last year for the Angel Tree Program, and we’ve just had as many families sign up this year.” With a growing need, it’s clear that this program holds exceptional value in our community.
Why the Increased Need?
As many families face challenging financial situations, the demand has surged, particularly due to rising inflation. Maj. Storm McClure noted, “We are seeing record numbers of angels come to us for help every single year.” For her, this program is more than just a seasonal charity; it’s personal. She reminisced about her childhood, sharing, “My mother was a single parent and she was disabled, so she struggled to make ends meet. To provide Christmas for my sister and me was difficult for her. We were recipients of the Angel Tree.”
Maj. Storm emphasized that it wasn’t just about getting toys. She shared how the program provided new clothing and shoes, saying, “It was the one time of the year that I received new clothing that was not hand-me-downs that was just for me. For me, the clothing and the new shoes were more important to me than the toys, although I did enjoy getting the new toys as well.”
How Can You Help?
If you’re looking to spread some holiday cheer, there are many ways you can get involved! Maj. Douglas McClure has made it easy to participate. You can find an Angel Tree tag at Hamilton Place Mall, and for those who can’t make it there, don’t worry! There’s another Angel Tree set up at Northgate Mall, and you can also find them at various Walmart locations around town. If you’re still unable to locate a tag, just stop by at 822 McCallie Avenue at their headquarters during working hours.
Red Kettle Month
In addition to the Angel Tree Program, December has been declared “Red Kettle Month” by the city of Chattanooga. This iconic tradition invites people to donate any amount they can to help support the Salvation Army and its various programs aimed at assisting those in need within the community. Keep an eye out for those red kettles around town and consider tossing in some spare change or a crisp bill! Every little bit helps.
Join the Spirit of Giving!
As we dive into this wonderful season of giving, remember that your support truly makes a difference. The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program is an incredible opportunity to change a child’s life this Christmas, allowing you to not only share presents but also a little bit of love. If you have been searching for a way to give back this holiday season, why not lend a hand to a child in your community? Together, we can ensure that every child feels the warmth and joy of Christmas this year.
