VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — November just started, but the Salvation Army is putting out a call for real-life angels to help spread Christmas cheer.
On Friday, the organization kicked off its Angel Tree program at Lynnhaven Mall. The program will offer new toys and clothes for children in need this Christmas.
This year, Jimmy Sisson, the Executive Director for the Hampton Roads Area Command, said they need help providing gifts to more than 6,800 children.
“It’s up somewhere from 10 to 14% from last year," Sisson said. "We anticipated that from the state of the economy."
Anyone can get involved with the Angel Tree program by taking an ornament or signing up online.
►Angel Tree giving link: https://bit.ly/hrvaangeltree
“We have approximately 2,000 kids that still need adoptions,” Sisson said. “Take an angel, fill it for a child, and then return it to the place you got it.”
Area Commander Major Chris Flanagan said the need is great, but he knows people in Hampton Roads are up for the challenge.
“Last year, there was no child turned away, there was no stocking that was not filled, the angels were adopted,” Flanagan said.
All donations are due by December 8. Sisson said it’s a joy every year to hand off presents to the families.
“I think all of us are made to help others,” Sisson said. “When we can tune into that and it’s meaningful and you know a child is going to have a special day because you contributed, I think it’s important.”
You can also help by filling holiday stockings through the Salvation Army’s "My Holiday Socks Program”.
Angel Tree ornaments will soon be located at the following locations as soon as next week:
- Coastal Edge locations at Greenbrier, Lynnhaven, Oceanfront, Pembroke, and Redmill.
- Greenbrier Mall
- Sam's Club, 3345 Virginia Beach Boulevard
- Wegmans in Virginia Beach, 4721 Virginia Beach Boulevard
Stockings are located at the following Dollar Bank branches.
