Salvation Army Kicks Off Angel Tree Program, Says Need Is Greater Than Ever

A holiday tradition kicks off this weekend in Green Country and the Salvation Army said there's a greater need than ever for the Angel Tree program after the financial strain caused by the pandemic.

The Salvation Army said your donation could save someone's Christmas.  

As the leaves are changing, and the shelves are stocked with toys and tinsel, the Salvation Army said even more people than ever could use a little assistance to help keep the spirit of the season alive. The Salvation Army said there has been a 2% increase since last year.  

“There are still a lot of families in need, so they may have to forgo Christmas this year unless someone steps in to help,” said Major Mark Harwell, Salvation Army Tulsa-Metro Area Commander. 

What were you doing as a kid on December 25? Hoping a bell fell from the sky off Santa's sleigh, or checking for cookie crumbs and empty milk glasses? We all hold onto holiday memories, but what if you woke up with nothing under your tree? Sapphire Lopez said this would've been her story if the Salvation Army hadn't stepped in.  

“With faith, any circumstance or situation can change,” said Lopez. "I just feel eternally grateful that there is such a beautiful resource that I can utilize.” 

“We know how important those times with family were,” said Harwell. “Strengthening family ties and how it contributed to our own sense of value and being loved and being part of a family.” 

The Salvation Army is bringing back its annual Angel Tree on Saturday where anyone can sponsor one of about 6,300 kids and senior citizens in need by picking up a card stock angel at a local angel tree or through their website. You can also give a monetary gift or look at the gift registries they’ve signed up for at local Target and Walmart stores. You can also order online and have the gifts delivered. Harwell said not everyone will get adopted so they host several toy drives to help supplement gifts. 

"It really is neat because the folks that you would anticipate who have had the greatest struggles and going through the most difficult things seem to be the most grateful people you encounter,” Harwell said.  

Harwell said every year he sees generosity provide families with a renewed sense of hope.  

“They really do form a unique connection with a child or senior whom they will never meet,” said Harwell. “For those who participate, it really adds to their own sense of celebration, joy and fulfillment." 

Lopez said the Angel Tree is a huge blessing for her boys and she can't thank her guardian angels enough. 

“I really enjoy being able to give my children things. This has just been such a treat for us. I just love seeing my little boy’s face light up. I love seeing any little kid’s face light up,” Lopez said.  

The Salvation Army said it also partnered with Mattress Firm, which is one of the gift drop-off locations this year. The deadline for gift return is December 10. The Salvation Army said it’s grateful to their corporate sponsors who’ve already adopted 29% of the angels.  

Children generally get four or five gifts through the Angel Tree Program and the gifts consist of toys and clothing items.  

Harwell said that all potential angels go through an application process, and he said they feel really good about the individuals they are helping.  He also said that preteens are the most difficult age to provide for and are usually the least likely to get picked, so he encourages the public to consider picking an older kid.   

“A little bit before Christmas all the families will go through a really incredible distribution process. So, a little over 3,000 families will come through our [Joy Center] doors on distribution days and serving those 6300 children,” said Harwell. “It’s quite a mammoth undertaking. A number of volunteers participate in the project helping get toys sorted, organized, so that it’s a very smooth process when the families come in to pick them up.” 

For more information on how you can adopt an angel, visit the website here.