Area Angel Tree Programs Benefit Local Families

As Christmas day inches closer, many people begin to feel a desire to give back to their community. This time of year is considered the season of giving, after all. Several area businesses and organizations have set up ways in which the community can help out this season, including by setting up Angel Tree donation spots.

To donate to local angels, people may pick a tag off the Angel Tree located inside an establishment. The tags usually list the recipient’s age, his or her gender and a brief wishlist. The Angel Tree coordinator distributes the donated gifts to the families in need, allowing parents and caregivers to place the presents under their tree on Christmas morning.

Locally, there are several establishments that have set up Angel Trees.

The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) - Henry/Carroll campus in McKenzie has an Angel Tree set up in its front lobby.

This tree’s angels are children and direct family members of TCAT students. The deadline to donate to TCAT-Henry/Carroll’s program is December 12.

McKenzie’s Beta Sigma Phi organization is also accepting Angel Tree donations this month. For more information, contact Beta Sigma Phi representative Jennifer Waldrup at McKenzie City Hall.

Partnering with the Salvation Army, Walmart stores in Huntingdon and Paris each have an Angel Tree set up inside on the front wall facing the checkout lines. Through Walmart, donors may give gifts to children and/or senior citizens in need. Donors may also visit the Salvation Army website to find additional participating Walmart stores or to donate online.

The Carroll County Humane Society introduced an alternative Angel Tree program, called “Shelter Angel,” this year, asking for donations for their pets. These tags identify the gift recipients by their animal type and ask for donations of food, treats, toys, collars and more.

There are many ways to give this season, and donating to your local Angel Tree program is a start.