Santa’s local elves have done it again — after months of preparation, thousands of Christmas presents are making their way into the homes and under the tree of 623 children in Washington County thanks to the Angel Tree program.
The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program allows community members to purchase Christmas gifts for local children in need. Citizens can donate newly-purchased toys and clothing or shop for a specific child (an “angel”) by selecting a tag from an Angel tree located in a local businesses.
Businesses with an Angel Tree this year included Marietta Community Foundation, American Flags and Poles, Campus Martius Museum, Belpre Kroger, and Marietta Walmart. Many more housed boxes for donations to be conveniently dropped off.
“The Salvation Army saw an incredible influx of registrations this and last year,” said Heather Allender, President and CEO of Marietta Community Foundation. “We recognized the need for support and jumped in to help fulfill the extra Christmas wishes.”
Over 1,300 gifts were donated by supporters of local nonprofits competing in Marietta Community Foundation’s Nonprofit Challenge, sponsored by Superior Toyota.
Peoples Bank Foundation also granted $3,000 to Marietta Community Foundation to shop for Angel Tree kids at local businesses.
“We really loved shopping locally for so many gifts,” said Allender. “We were able to purchase gifts from Marietta Adventure Company, Workingman’s Store, Wit & Whimzy, Apex True Value, Penny Pinchers, Andy’s Toy Chest, Tabletop Puzzles & Games, SP Curated, and The Cook Shop to name a few.”
Courtney Wentz, Communications Director at the Foundation, noted their positive experience shopping locally.
“Every time we visited a local business, we were extended a warm welcome,” said Wentz. “So many times the person’s eyes would light up when we said that we were shopping for Angel Tree and they’d quickly jump up and help us select the perfect items for each child. The personal service was outstanding.”
Megan Barker, Community Resource Facilitator for the Salvation Army, shared how thankful they were for the community’s support.
“This would not have been possible if it weren’t for the Foundation and community members shopping for tags,” said Barker. “We’re also thankful for the Washington County Fair Board for donating building space for us to use again this year.”
Distribution for the Angel Tree was held just in time for the Holiday; December 20-21.