Angles still needed
By Matt Shaw
Published in News on December 10, 2004 2:00 PM
The Salvation Army still needs some "angels" to help more than 800 children in low-income households.
Only a few days remain in the Salvation Army's angel tree campaign, but collections are still far below what's needed, said social worker Edie Best.
"If the trees were empty, I'd be a lot more at ease, but those trees are still full of tags," she said this morning. "But this should be a big shopping weekend, so I'm hopeful."
Monday is the last day to pick a child's name and Christmas wish, buy gifts and return them to the collection sites. The angel trees are at Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, Gold's Gym, BB&T on Ash Street, and two locations in Berkeley Mall, near J.C. Penney's and inside K&W Cafeteria.
Most gifts would cost less than $20, she said. Some children have asked for more expensive items but would be happy with any gift.
Anyone who would like to donate new or used toys can bring them to the Salvation Army headquarters, 610 N. William St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday. Donations can also be brought to the thrift shop, 309 E. Holly St., between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday or Monday.
The Salvation Army plans to hold its annual Toy Shop on Thursday, where families will get gifts, stockings, clothing and food to brighten the holidays.
The Salvation Army can also match individuals or groups up with families or individual children if they want more of a one-on-one connection. In some cases, people deliver the gifts themselves. Occasionally, the sponsor takes a family shopping and allows them to buy the items they want, Mrs. Best said.
Anyone who wants to help may go to one of the angel trees and follow directions there, or call the Salvation Army at 735-4811 and talk to either Ms. Best or Capt. Beverly Leidy.