Angel Trees

By Vanessa & Shia

Christmas is a holiday enjoyed by many throughout the world, centered around spending time with loved ones and the act of giving. As time goes on, society tends to forget about the many families not having the privilege of affording gifts for their loved ones. In 1979, local Salvation Army officers Major Charles and Shirley White in Lynchburg, Virginia, recognized this matter and became inspired to help those in need. 

Shirley White had concerns about children who are outcasted for not getting presents like other kids and not being able to enjoy the Christmas spirit. She explains, “We wanted to help with that. So, we took a walk through the mall and entered a Hallmark store. I spotted a Christmas card with three angels on the front. So, I said, ‘What if we cut these and make three Angels out of it, each with a child’s clothing size on the back and hang them on the tree?’” This plan was supported by the citizens in Lynchburg and has been ongoing for 42 years, providing hundreds of families since then.

The Angel Tree program is a non-profit organization that is run by the non-profit businesses Salvation Army and Prison Fellowship. In this program, it’s goal is to provide for children and seniors in need. Donors are able to “adopt” an Angel by taking a tag from the tree where it will have the recipient's name, age, gender, clothing size, and wish list. Volunteers then organize and sort the donated gifts to be distributed to the given person for Christmas. This program has significantly impacted the lives of many. It provides children and seniors with basic necessities and alleviates stress for families. For those with incarcerated or sick parents, this program provides a sense of normalcy and care.  

Success of Angel Trees Program

Since the beginning of the Angel Tree program it has turned into a success and continues to grow, providing more than a million children and seniors around the world with gifts and necessities. In its growth, its popularity has grown as well, with an increase of demand and donors willing to assist. Platforms like Tiktok and YouTube encourage participation and donations by spreading awareness and showing themselves participating in angel trees. Creating a record high score of donations and assistance being made towards the Angel Tree program. Popular social media influencers record their own experiences shopping onto their platform that eventually inspired others to participate. Such as, Jordan Hall, Becca Bloom, Serena Neel, Kellie Gerardi and more.