The Salvation Army distributes gifts from its Angel Tree Program to more than 500 local children

In Lauderdale County , the Salvation Army is officially wrapping up its annual Angel Tree Program, distributing gifts for the program. The organization saw a significant increase in the number of children they gifted presents to this holiday season.

This year, the Salvation Army distributed gifts purchased by local community members, to more than 500 children within Lauderdale, Newton, and Neshoba counties for its annual Angel Tree Program.

The Salvation army kicked off the program one month ago, allowing community members to adopt an “Angel” off a Christmas tree set up in the counties served, and purchase gifts for that child.

Lieutenant Tamara Robb with the Salvation Army shared that more children were registered as angels this year, due to the increased need during the pandemic.

“There were over 100 new angels this year, and at the end, we were trying to fulfill those angels, --the presents that were coming back in. so, we put a percentage of the angels that we take applications for on the tree as forgotten angels, and when someone purchases for them, it will have the same information on them as it would for one of our angels,” said Lt. Tamara Robb.

Lt. Robb told Twin States News that she was thankful for the community’s assistance in providing gifts for the program, saying that she was glad they were able to provide gifts for all of the children registered as angels.

“I know that a lot of the parents are grateful, so when they come and receive the gift, it’s something that they were unable to provide for their children. So, we see the gratitude in the parents faces, knowing that they were going to be able to provide their children with Christmas,” said Lt. Robb.

The Salvation Army of Meridian is still conducting its Red Kettle Campaign until Christmas Eve, and donation are still able to be made online for the campaign.