THE ANGEL TREE

It was the year 1979, and one Virginia couple was determined to help the struggling members in their surrounding area. To do so, the couple, Majors Charles and Shirley White asked around local stores for donations such as clothes and toys. From there they set up a Christmas tree at their local mall, writing the names of each child and the items they needed on a card, which was hung up on the tree. This very moment was the birth of the very wholesome program, the “Angel Tree”. 

45 years later, the “Angel Tree” program remains strong today. However, more programs similar to the “Angel Tree” have popped up over time. These include, but are not limited to, Toys For Tots, Sponsor a Family, and Operation Christmas Child. Along with the Angel Tree, these programs donate various items, including toys, hair tools, cosmetics, purses/bags, hygiene products, electronics, clothes, etc.

To get more local, Clear Creek Amana High School runs multiple drives and sponsorships during this cold holiday season. This includes Sponsor a Family run by the Student Council, a winter clothes drive run by Interact Club, and more. A big thanks should be given to the Student Council, Interact Club, and any other groups in this school for giving back to our community, especially during this season that isn't easy for everyone.

However, just because donating seems to be more prominent during the winter holidays, it should not be equivalized to only donating during this time of the year. People continue to struggle all year long and for some, donations are their only way to get by. So, needless to say, donate any time in the year, don't just limit it down to the month of December.

This season generally fills many people with cheer and joy, but that is not true for everyone. Without these programs, many children and people in general would not receive gifts or the basic essentials during this holiday season. Many people are fortunate enough and are able and willing to donate so if you know someone who would be willing to donate or if you yourself want to donate, don’t hold back; do it because you may temporarily make someone's life better, even if it is just for a little bit.

ANGEL TREE AT THE CORALVILLE WALMART; PHOTO BY ELLA STINEMAN