Salvation Army's Angel Tree distribution begins

Needy families have asked for your help, and now they're starting to receive. <br><br>The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program started giving away presents Wednesday. News on Six anchor Scott

Wednesday, December 18th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Needy families have asked for your help, and now they're starting to receive.

The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program started giving away presents Wednesday. News on Six anchor Scott Thompson says the Salvation Army's Angel tree program has been growing for about 20 years.

Itâ€™s a way for Tulsa families who can't afford presents to have something under the tree. Misty Barton says Christmas was looking a little bleak for her this year. "They probably wouldnâ€™t have got anything cause we're not working I lost my job." But with the help of the Salvation Army and someone's generous donation, Santa's come a little early this year. And now all of Misty's five kids will have presents underneath the tree. â€œOh they'll be happy they'll be excited. My oldest is eight he got a skateboard and a remote control car my daughter got some clothes and a Barbie.â€

Barton isn't the only one tickled with her Christmas haul. Volunteer Allison Stisser, "She was really excited and we get alot of excited people some people cry and some people there emotions are so overwhelming that they donâ€™t know what to say so its a really good feeling when you see people excited."

Even if they aren't adopted from the Angel Tree, the Salvation Army makes sure people don't leave empty handed. Those without angel gifts can pick something out in the toyshop. Barton doesn't need to do that, she's already overwhelmed with gifts, and gratitude. â€œThank you for all your help and support."

The Angel Trees will remain open at both Eastland and Woodland Hills Mall through December 23rd. And you can drop toys off at any Bank of Oklahoma branch, the Salvation Army headquarters or the Joy Center at Eastland Mall. Because they're might not be enough toys to go around.