Angel Tree program connects community with gifts

By Ms. Julie M Lucas (IMCOM)November 25, 2014

Angel Tree program connects community with gifts
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

VICENZA, Italy -- After the shelves are stocked with food and the stockings are hung, some in the Vicenza Military Community might have a hard time putting gifts under their tree this year. The Angel Tree program facilitates the process of connecting those going through financial hardships with gifts this season.

"Commanders and first sergeants provide information from families of Soldiers E4 and below or those they feel have a need," said Michelle Demarais, Angel Tree coordinator.

According to Demarais, last year 90 children from 40 families received assistance from the community. A kick off to the program will be held Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. at Army Community Service building 108. During the kickoff event, community members will have their first opportunity to adopt an angel from the holiday tree, signifying a commitment to a Soldier's child. Light refreshments and entertainment will be provided. Angels will be available for pick up from Angel Trees located in the ACS Lobby and in the PX until all of the angels have been adopted, or until the gift drop off deadline of Dec. 12. The angels will include information such as the child's sex, age, clothing size and preferences. Gifts that are purchased should be unwrapped and left in the drop off location at the PX, near the customer service counter.

"We are doing something different this year and youth in the community are decorating angels that donors can have a keepsake to place on their tree at home," Demarais said.