NC Angel Tree program supports kids in need for Christmas

A program is helping families in North Carolina who are struggling to experience the joy of Christmas.

The Salvation Army of Wake and Lee Counties has partnered with Coastal Credit Union on the Angel Tree program. The project allows people to adopt an angel and provide support to a local child in need.

Area Salvation Army commander Maj. Lorraina Crawford said the program had about 8,000 children register this year.

“We try to provide a whole entire outfit for the children and three toys,” she said. “So we ask corporations to help us, churches, smaller businesses. We put up an angel tree at the Crabtree Mall, and then we have an online site where people can get angels from there.”

Coastal Credit Union is hosting the program at all of its branches. Gifts should be dropped off at the branches by 5 p.m. Dec. 5. The Salvation Army asks that gifts donated to its Angel Tree Warehouse in Cary be received by Dec. 8. People who adopt an angel will receive a gift tag with the child’s favorite toys and colors, and clothing size.

Crawford said many families this holiday season have to take care of the essentials first, such as putting food on the table and paying rent and electricity bills. She said that often leaves Christmas spending low on the priority list.

“That’s something that’s last, if they had something left over,” she said. “And so, we’re just trying to help that not be last, that children will still know the joy and hope of Christmas regardless of what financial situation their family is in.”

Crawford said the number of registered kids has increased by 1,000 from last year, underscoring the urgent need this season.

Related: USPS’ Operation Santa: Making children’s holidays merry and bright