NBC12 and Salvation Army team up for annual Angel Tree Program

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Angel Tree is a Christmas tradition for thousands of families in Central Virginia, but it’s going to be a bit different due to the ongoing pandemic - that includes an even easier way to find a child in need.

For many families, adopting an Angel is a wonderful way to share the spirit of the season with others in our community who are less fortunate. Each Angel represents a real child right here in our community who needs your help.

And now, for the first time ever, you can adopt an angel without leaving your home.

“They can set that up and do their own peer-to-peer fundraisers so you can do it at your Christmas party,” said Central Virginia Salvation Army Captain, Jason Burns.

For those who prefer the traditional style of adopting an angel in person, the Salvation Army says that’s still an option.

“We’ll have man and unmanned Angel Tree locations across the region,” said Burns. “We have two locations, one is at Short Pump and the other is at Chesterfield Towne Center where you can go and talk with someone if have questions.”

Angels trees can still be found at the following locations:

• Short Pump Town Center
• Chesterfield Towne Center
• Wegman’s locations
• Marco’s Pizza locations

Drop-off options, however, are all in person: Chesterfield Town Center, Short Pump, The Salvation Army Area Command, and Stony Point Fashion Center. All gifts are due by Dec. 4.

Volunteering

The need for help in the community has always been there. This year, it just happens to be greater. Due to the impact of COVID-19 in our community, The Salvation Army is setting out early to rescue Christmas for those most in need this season.

“Christmas has never been more important than in a time of chaos and time of struggle, and the joy of Christmas is found in many ways so we set out to find that joy and save Christmas,” said Burns.

Volunteers are a critical part of bringing the Angel Tree program to life. Christmas Center volunteers assist with setup, sorting gifts for clients and distributing gifts.

“The importance of Christmas is that we’re bringing joy to families and we’re providing an opportunity for parents to see children love and experience their childhood,” said Burns.

Details:

• Warehouse volunteers are needed Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Shifts begin on Thursday, Nov. 11 and run through Friday, Dec. 11.
• Distribution volunteers are needed Dec. 14 through Dec. 18 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and 12:30 - 5:00 p.m.

Numerous safety measures are in place to keep volunteers safe, including temperature check upon arrival, social distancing, masks required at all times, hand sanitizer stations available, disinfection is done on toys and donations.

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