FORT RUCKER, Ala. (November 21, 2014) -- For those asking themselves where they can make a difference this holiday season, opportunities abound.
The following are a couple of post charities that can use people's help.
Holiday Food Program
Since the post food locker closed earlier this year, community members are the sole source of funding for Fort Rucker's Holiday Food Program.
Holiday Food Program recipients are referred to Army Community Service by commanders and directors, according to Beth Gunter, post Army Emergency Relief and food program coordinator.
"Our Holiday Food Program is made possible solely through voluntary monetary donations from individuals, organizations and military units," said Gunter. "Although this is the time of year folks generally think of food donation programs, we accept donations for the Holiday Food Program all year."
Angel Tree
Therese Erthal, Catholic parish coordinator, manages the traditional Angel Tree project located at the Fort Rucker Main Post Chapel.
"The Angel Tree has provided gifts for children of Fort Rucker Soldiers and civilian workers for about 10 years. Christmas presents are donated by community members for children of families nominated for Army Community Service Holiday Food Vouchers," Erthal said.
"Although this is not an ACS program, ACS sends me a list after nominations have been screened and approved, and I generate our Angel Tree name tags based on the ages and genders of the children," she said.
This year, there are more than 450 children's names on the Angel Tree, according to Erthal.
"In addition to the chapel tree, this year I will also have a tree at the main entrance of the post exchange for the convenience of holiday shoppers that might want to participate. Donors may leave their gifts in the designated box at the tree. I will collect the gifts every night and bring them back to our tree at the chapel," Erthal said.
Angel Tree gift donations should be delivered unwrapped with the nametag of the child the gift is for to either location no later than Dec. 14.
For more information, call 255-9894.
Related Links:
USAACE and Fort Rucker on Twitter
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