Families in need can register for Salvation Army’s Angel Tree through Oct. 21; trees will go up next month

October 13, 2022 | 12:09 am

Updated October 13, 2022 | 12:11 am

Families in need can register for the Salvation Army of Owensboro’s Angel Tree assistance program now through Oct. 21. Community members can choose an angel to sponsor from one of the tree locations beginning Nov. 15, and donations will be accepted through mid-December.

The program was created by Salvation Army Majors Charles and Shirley White more than 40 years ago to help with holiday assistance for children across the United States who usually go without Christmas gifts. Anonymous donors adopt an angel from a tree located in a community store and purchase the requested items to be distributed at The Salvation Army.

Clothing, toys, and gifts for families with children ages 0-12 are the requested items, and each child’s wishes and sizes are listed on the numbered angels on the trees. 

Local Salvation Army Captain Alyssa Irvin said that 75 angels have already been reserved by local corporations, but she would love to have more small businesses, work groups, or friend groups take multiple angels as there is a large need for the community.

Irvin and her husband Judah moved to Owensboro in June of 2021, and this will be her second season with local angel tree angels.

“Last year I was just getting my feet wet, but this year I feel like I know the community better,” she said.

In-person applications used to be the only way to register a family, but online applications were used last year. This year, a QR code was created so families can register more easily.

“This system is so amazing,” she said. “If a family applied last year, that information is stored and we have them on file.”

It also allows Irvin to email applicants if any information is missing, such as the mother who did not include sizing for her 3-month-old. Irvin said the registrant can simply go in and edit.

“It’s easier and quicker, especially for the other counties served by The Salvation Army of Owensboro,” she said. “They don’t have to take off work and come in with all of their valuable assets.”

Both Owensboro Walmarts, Sam’s Club, the YMCA, and Burkes Outlet will host the local trees beginning Nov. 15, and Irvin said she expects more families to request assistance this year. 

Many local families and organizations purchase items for angels and use this as a holiday tradition to foster their community of giving. Those interested in sponsoring a child should have their donations ready by Dec. 13.

Distribution will take place Dec. 20 at The Salvation Army, located at 215 Ewing Road. An approval email along with the registrant’s proof of identification is how gifts will be given.

Irvin said they are also looking for volunteers to get the gifts ready between Dec. 13-19.

“It really is like Santa’s workshop,” she said.

Registration forms can be found here. Registrants will need a form of identification for all adults in the home, birth certificates for those 12 and under, clothing sizes for children, two wishes, and two needs for each child. If applicable, custody documentation and food stamp award letters will also be necessary.

Anyone needing assistance in registering can contact Irvin at 270-685-5576.

October 13, 2022 | 12:09 am

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