Numerous volunteer slots open for holidays with Salvation Army
MADISON – Each year, the Salvation Army welcomes community volunteers for outreach programs during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. This year is no exception.
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“There are many opportunities to volunteer as we depend heavily upon you all to help make the Christmas season brighter for many in our community,” special events and volunteer coordinator Lydia Pennington said.
At Angel Tree sites, individuals can select a child or family that needs gifts or essentials. Starting Nov. 8, Salvation Army will have booths open daily at Parkway Place and Madison Square malls.
“You’ll assist people who want to adopt angels,” Pennington said. “Encourage family, friends or co-workers to join you.” Each site needs about three people daily. To sign up, visit SalvationArmyHuntsville.org and click “Sign Up Now.”
To organize Angel Tree gifts, volunteers will staff the Toy Shop on University Drive on Dec. 5-6 and 9-13. Distribution day will be Dec. 17.
Salvation Army’s Red Kettles raise funds for year-round, essential services. Red kettles will be placed at Walmart, Sam’s Club, Star Market, Kroger and Hobby Lobby throughout Madison County. To volunteer as a bell ringer, email to Mark_Satterlee@uss.salvationarmy.org.
Social media and photography volunteers can post up-to-date announcements for the Salvation Army.
“The holidays can be difficult for many. We make sure to prepare an extra special meal at our community kitchen for hundreds who come,” Pennington said. For Christmas and Thanksgiving meals, the center needs 20 turkeys, 10 turkey breasts, hams and traditional staples for stuffing, sweet potato casserole, canned vegetables, desserts and disposable plates and utensils.
Currently, shelter workers are asking for blankets and bed linens, towels, socks, gloves, hats and travel-size toiletries, like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, razors, shaving cream and deodorant.
The Salvation Army’s center in Huntsville is located at 2114 Oakwood Ave.; call 256-536-5576. The thrift store is next door at 2112 Oakwood Ave.; call 256-539-9137. The shelter and rehabilitation program are located at 305 Seminole Ave.; call 256-536-8876.
For more information, call 256-536-5576, ext. 14 or email to salvationarmyvols@gmail.com.
