The Salvation Army says hundreds of ‘angels’ still need gifts
The Salvation Army is continuing to accept toys and gifts for children who were not ‘adopted’ with the Angel Tree program. Individuals can take donations to 355 Quality Circle in Huntsville. (CONTRIBUTED)
MADISON COUNTY – The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree ‘adoptions’ will supply Christmas gifts to hundreds of children in need. Unfortunately, about 200 children still may be looking at a bare floor under the Christmas tree on the morning of Dec. 25.
Over the weekend of Dec. 5, The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree stations closed at Parkway Place and Madison Square malls in Huntsville. “We had more than 200 ‘angels’ that were not adopted. The Salvation Army ensures that every angel receives a gift,” Lydia Pennington said.
Pennington works as community relations coordinator for The Salvation Army in Huntsville and Madison County.
“We are gladly taking toys and gifts for these children. If anyone is interested, they can drop off the toys at our distribution center at 355 Quality Circle in Huntsville,” Pennington said. Quality Circle is east of the intersection of Old Madison Pike and Jan Davis Drive.
The center on Quality Circle is open weekdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays.
The largest percentage of ‘angels’ “left on the tree” are children from 8 to 12 years old, both boys and girls, Pennington said. “Several wanted a bike, which is, in part, why they were not adopted. People often tend to adopt angels that have the least expensive wish lists, understandably.”
The most needed gifts are all types of board games, children’s electronics, LEGO sets, MP3 players, headphones, educational toys for learning, jewelry, bikes and character toys, like Dora the Explorer, Avengers and from the movie “Frozen.”
“Although, any toys or gifts would be greatly appreciated,” Pennington said.
Founded in Lynchburg, Va. in 1979, the Angel Tree involves the community in a direct way, allowing individuals to share with those less fortunate in their community. Children who receive gifts are in families who have applied for Christmas assistance through the Social Services program of The Salvation Army.
For more information, call Pennington at 256-536-5576, ext. 14, email to salvationarmyvols@gmail.com or visit salvationarmyhuntsville.org.
