Angel Tree families grateful for community’s generosity

By Olivia Ugino | December 11, 2018 at 4:23 PM EST - Updated December 11 at 6:07 PM

RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) - Families in Central Virginia began picking up their gifts Tuesday from the Salvation Army Tree, completely with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with NBC12′s General Manager Kym Grinnage at the Christmas Center at Virginia Center Commons.

“Often times you’ll see many tears shed, many hugs given, and just people are overwhelmed at the generosity, not of the Salvation Army, but our community,” said Capt. Donald Dohmann, Area Commander, Salvation Army.

Angel Tree
Today was the first day families got to pick up their gifts generously donated to the Salvation Army, along with NBC12's, Angel Tree. But we don't always get to see their reactions. I had that pleasure today and it was hands down the best moment of my week. I would love to share it all with you. You can see the full story tonight.
Posted by Olivia Ugino on Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Kennicia Taylor has been struggling with health problems and she could use a little magic.

"Honestly, especially this year, if it wasn't for y'all I wouldn't be able to do anything for my kids for Christmas," said Taylor.

Kennecia’s daughters are just two of the 5,000 children who will have presents this holiday season because of the Salvation Army and the community’s generosity.

“That right there is worth it all, that’s worth it all right there. Just to give her something I know she wanted and I couldn’t actually go to the store and buy. So thank you,” said Taylor.

The Christmas Center wasn’t able to open Monday because of the weather; if you were scheduled to pick up your presents then, you can go any time this week.