Christmas outlook brighter for Liberty ‘angels’
The school population at Liberty Middle School selflessly put aside its Christmas wish list to give back to others.
The Liberty Angel Tree will help nine students who might not otherwise have gifts this Christmas, ninth-grade counselor Stephanie Goglin said.
The Liberty Angel Tree will help nine students who might not otherwise have gifts this Christmas, ninth-grade counselor Stephanie Goglin said. “We also show our students that we care enough about them to help with more than just their educational needs.”
Goglin appreciates the tremendous support this year. Even a parent of a former Liberty student wanted to help.
“All ornaments were taken from the tree in two days,” Goglin said. “In the seven years I’ve been (coordinating the) Angel Tree, I’ve never had such a quick response. It has been remarkable.”
In addition to helping their peers, students are experiencing the fulfillment of giving back. “A giving spirit and caring heart go a long way,” Goglin said. “Sometimes in this high-tech world, we forget to emphasize these important character traits.”
“Our students also need to realize that not everyone in this school has the same privileges,” she said. “Some families really struggle to make ends meet and can’t give their children gifts at Christmas.”
In strict confidentiality, counselors and faculty suggest the recipients. The counselors then review the free/reduced lunch list, talk to administrators and call parents to see if they need the assistance. Some parents are appreciative but defer to families who have greater need.
“I’ve had parents cry and tell me God has answered their prayers,” Goglin said. “It’s probably one of the most satisfying projects I do all year.” Only the counselors know the actual recipients.
With the 2010 Angel Tree, Liberty helped 14 families. “I would venture to say that it topped $6,000 worth of gifts. That’s being conservative,” Goglin said.
The angels ask for jeans, shirts, socks, undergarments, tennis shoes, winter coats and boots. “They’ve also asked for Alabama and Auburn gear, footballs, basketballs, a Monopoly game, sweats, pajama bottoms, perfume/cologne, MP3 players, Wii games, drawing/art supplies, compact discs, makeup, books, gift cards and a bicycle,” Goglin said.
