As people get ready for the Christmas season, the Salvation Army has reported that there is a larger need for Angel Tree Adoptions.
The Angel Tree program helps those in need around the holidays who may not be able to afford Christmas presents. Through the program, donors can “adopt” a child, senior, or adult in need and provide them with a Christmas gift.
The program started in 1979 and has helped millions around the country.
This year, according to the senior director of community relations at the Salvation Army of North Texas, Christina Cavalier, the Salvation Army has seen a 20% increase in requests for the program, meaning that the need is very high this year.
Cavalier additionally reported that more and more people were coming to the Salvation Army food pantries, and their shelters have been full.
Due to adverse economic conditions such as historically high inflation, families can be in a position where they have to decide between affording necessities and getting Christmas presents.
The Angel Tree program works with social services and schools to collect names and wishlists of individuals and families in need.
Donors can “Adopt an Angel” online and can choose the gender and age of their adoptee. Once they have received a wishlist, they buy the child or adult a gift and bring it to the Salvation Army Christmas Distribution Center.
The last day to participate in giving to these families in need is December 3.
At Walmart locations or certain participating mall locations, there are also opportunities to adopt “Forgotten Angels.” These individuals are those who qualified and signed up for the program but were not adopted and are still in need of a gift.
“Forgotten Angels” can also be found at the following mall locations: NorthPark Center, Galleria Dallas, Northeast Mall, The Shops at Willow Bend, Golden Triangle Mall, Hulen Mall, and the Parks at Arlington.
