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Released 23 October 2009
Knoxville, TN - The Salvation Army is earnestly seeking new
donors for its annual Angel Tree Program. The program, which provides toys, clothing and food baskets for needy
families, is being drastically affected by the downturn in the economy.
The Salvation Army’s program
relies largely on corporate participation. “We started seeing a small change last year, but this year it’s really
noticeable,” said Major Don Vick. “Several companies have dropped out altogether, and most of the ones who
participate annually have cut their numbers by about 10%.”
The Salvation Army accepted
applications for Christmas assistance in September and has over 2000 Angels
waiting to be adopted. The Angels
represent an actual child and come with sizes for clothing along with a
Christmas wish. The cost to provide
gifts for one angel usually runs between $75 and $100. Gifts are returned to The Salvation Army and
will be distributed to participating families on December 19.
In addition to the Angel Tree
program, The Salvation Army will also be distributing 5000 Christmas stockings
to area children as well as senior citizens. Stockings may be adopted as well, and come with a list of recommended
items for each age group. Items for the
Christmas stockings can be purchased for around $10.
For information on adopting angels
or hosting an Angel Tree at your place of business, contact program coordinator
Candis Hobby at (865) 789-3699. For
information on adopting Christmas stockings, contact Lt. Deanne Jones at (865)
525-9401.