Salvation Army looking for more Angel Tree shoppers

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Salvation Army has been hard at work over the past few weeks, collecting toys and clothing to distribute to families all across Bowling Green.

Through the Angel Tree program, volunteers will choose a child from the tree and shop for their needs and wants, usually clothes and toys, for kids of all ages. The program has continued to grow over the years, helping even more children in our community. But this year, the Salvation Army says they’re still looking for more volunteers to help make Christmas magical for every child.

“We help just under 1,200 children this year, and currently in our warehouse, though the deadline is tomorrow to bring in gifts on December 12, we’re still short probably about 500 children. And so we’re kind of about halfway there. And we know everybody kind of waits maybe to the end or to the deadline. And so we’re just looking forward to getting those and filling those boxes,” said Capt. Monica Horton with the Salvation Army.

It’s a team effort as they work to help thousands of kids across the region. From the dozens of volunteers who pack and distribute toys to the many organizations doing the same work, it’s an uphill battle but a worthwhile one to make sure every child has a big smile come Christmas.

“Each box represents a family. And so there are multiple children in each box. And the warehouse is just full of boxes. We’re just one of many agencies that come together to provide Christmas hope and Christmas joy to children around our community. And so we’re thankful to partner with other agencies. But this year, through the Angel Tree, we’re thankful for all of our all of our volunteers who come to help support us, who are unloading trucks and bagging the gifts and bagging the toys and those that will be here on distribution day to help us pass out the gifts to the families,” Horton said.

There are still trees with names located at the Walmart on Walton Avenue and The Greenwood Mall.