People Helping People
As the year ends amid an uncertain economy, perhaps this is the perfect time to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. When you are out shopping this season, don’t ignore the Red Kettle. It is a tradition and important part of the Christmas scene. The campaign allows The Salvation Army to put millions of donated dollars to good use for needy families across the nation.
Locally The Salvation Army hopes to raise about $100,000 from the kettle campaign, according to Captain David Lorenzo of the Gainesville office. Donations support events such as the Christmas dinner, clothing and toys for needy families and financial assistance with basic necessities, along with seasonal aid. The Salvation Army feeds about 120 families and homeless people dinner each Monday through Friday, and last year’s annual holiday dinner on Christmas Eve served about 300 people. “With more people struggling, we expect to feed even more on Christmas Eve this year,” Lorenzo said.
The Angel Tree is another integral tradition of the Salvation Army, and you’ll find the local tree at the Oaks Mall near J.C. Penney’s. The tree provides opportunities for the public to donate new clothing and or toys for about 200 needy children in the area. Donors select a paper angel tag with the a child’s first name, age and gender. This allows donors to then purchase an age appropriate gift and return the unwrapped gift to the mall or deliver it to The Salvation Army on East University Avenue for the child. All gifts are checked for safety. Participants are requested to please not include candy in your gift.
“The Angel Tree is a beautiful program. We are touched by the generosity of everyone who helps with this,” Raquel Lorenzo, a minister and the wife of Captain Lorenzo said. “My husband and I love taking part in this special program each year. With locations in 110 countries, The Salvation Army has been helping people since 1865. The Salvation Army continues to work where the need is greatest, motivated by faith in God and its love for all people. The organization endeavors to bring spiritual light and love to those it serves at Christmas so that the real meaning of Christmas is not forgotten.