Salvation Army seeks donations for Angel Tree program

JOPLIN, Mo. — It's a critical time for a local program that helps kids have a happier Christmas.

It's the Angel Tree program for the Salvation Army of Jasper and Newton County.

This year, 1,066 children within Jasper and Newton counties are registered in the program as an "Angel."

As of Saturday, only 222 Christmas gifts have been purchased and turned in.

Each gift provides a child with 2-3 toys - along with a winter coat.

Salvation Army officials are set to distribute the gifts on December 18 in Joplin, Carthage, and Neosho.

Right now, they simply just need more donations of toys.

"For me, it brings back memories to a time when we were raising young children and we were not able to give them gifts at Christmas - and the Salvation Army came through and our kids got socks and a lawn chair. I just remember those gifts - and I remember it with fond memories - because other people took the time to shop for these kids," said Capt. Deb Middendorp, Salvation Army of Jasper & Newton County.

Those interested in helping out can pick up Angel Tree tags in all local Walmart and Casey's locations.

you can drop off toys or a financial donation at the Joplin branch of the Salvation Army.