Angel Tree 2024
At The Salvation Army Austin, we’re already embracing the spirit of Christmas- even though it is only September! As the summer sun is still shining, our team is busy laying the groundwork for the holiday season ahead. We’re thrilled to kick off preparations for our Angel Tree program, which brings joy to thousands of children in our community each year.
Since 1979, The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program has helped to fulfill the Christmas wishes and needs of children up to 12 years old through Central Texas. On September 3rd, applications opened for families in need to apply, providing The Salvation Army with a Christmas wish list for each child that includes new toys, games, clothing, and shoe sizes. Donors and volunteers can then “adopt” each of these angels and fill an Angel Tree bag with gifts chosen according to the wish lists. Gifts are then distributed to the parents a week before Christmas day.
Marta Santana, a mother whose children were blessed by the Angel Tree program, shared her poignant Christmas story. After a devastating car accident left her and her two children injured, the holiday season became a time of even deeper struggle. In her desperate hope to bring a spark of joy to her children amid the hardship, she turned to the program. Despite their own challenges, her children’s wish lists were filled with humble requests, each concluding with the heart-wrenching note: “I’ll thank God for whatever I get.” As Marta navigated the process, she discovered she could even request gifts for her unborn baby, who was due that December. She had been unable to afford the essential items like blankets, clothes, a car seat, and a stroller. Marta tearfully expressed that without the Angel Tree program, Christmas would have been impossible for her family. Her gratitude overflows for everyone who makes this season a beacon of hope and magic for her children.
There are families all over Central Texas who need a little help making their Christmas special this year. Every child deserves joy on this holiday, and our Angel Tree Program is dedicated to lending a hand to families just like the Santanas. Join us this winter as we prepare thousands of gifts for children in Central Texas.
To learn more about how you can get involved in this year’s Angel Tree Program please visit DoingMostGood.org/Angel.
Volunteer Interest Form Adoption Interest Form Apply to Receive Gifts Make a Monetary Donation