The Salvation Army preparing now for Thanksgiving, Christmas

Thanks to The Salvation Army’s Angel Trees, many children will receive a Christmas gift, like the little boy show here. Volunteers can choose among numerous volunteering slots during the holidays. (PHOTO/THE SALVATION ARMY)

HUNTSVILLE, MADISON COUNTY – The Salvation Army is ready to accept volunteer help from residents to prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“Many opportunities to volunteer are open. 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.

Angel Tree booths at Parkway Place and Madison Square malls need at least one volunteer from Nov. 7 until Dec. 8. Booth hours will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., except Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.

“Encourage family, friends or co-workers to join you,” Pennington said. “You’ll assist people who want to adopt angels.” To sign up, visit SalvationArmyHuntsville.org and click the “Angel Tree” tab and “Give Hands.”

The organization’s iconic service, bell ringers for Christmas kettles collect funds used year-round. Christmas kettles are placed at WalMart, Sam’s Club, Star Market, Kroger and Hobby Lobby across Madison County. Volunteers ring bells from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday-Saturday starting Nov. 7.

A new opportunity for volunteers is the Senior Adult Christmas Party on Dec. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the National Speleological Society building on Pulaski Pike. Volunteers will host the party.

“Each year, we have local entertainers/groups to perform,” Pennington said.

At the Angel Tree distribution center (or Toy Shop), volunteers will sort and arrange gifts for distribution. The center will be open on Dec. 5 and 8-12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also, volunteers will assemble bicycles.

“This volunteer opportunity is popular among corporations and groups,” Pennington said. Distribution Day will be Dec. 16 when about 60 volunteers are needed.

Donations can be delivered to 305 Seminole Drive or 2112 Oakwood Ave. in Huntsville or 385 Hughes Road in Madison.

The Salvation Army needs many food Items for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. The shelter needs twin bed sheets, gloves, socks and all types of toiletries.

For more information, call Pennington at 256-536-5576, ext. 14 or email to salvationarmyvols@gmail.com.