INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — About 600 families, including nearly 2,000 seniors and children, will have an extra special gift under the Christmas Tree all thanks to the community’s angels who adopted from the Salvation Army Angel Tree.
“The community has really come out,” said Salvation Army Major Veronica VanDenberg. “I’m so thankful to the community.”
Individuals in the community selected “angels” to sponsor from various Angel Trees throughout the county – purchasing the items the children or seniors requested.
Less than 200 were left unclaimed, Major VanDenberg said, leaving Salvation Army’s volunteer to fill the need, which was easily achieved.
“The community came through so well,” she said.
While children asked for small electronics, dolls and bikes, seniors requested items for the kitchen and their home.
“Some just wanted throw rugs,” Major VanDenberg said.
Toasters and mixers were among the top requested items, along with bedding.
On Wednesday, those who registered as an angel for the Angel Tree returned to the Salvation Army to receive the gifts donors provided.
“It helps for sure,” said one woman who came to pick up gifts for her two girls.
“They’re doing a great thing here,” said the man with her. “It’s hard to make ends meet.”
The parents said this was a first for them, coming to the Salvation Army for assistance. They said they appreciated the staff and volunteers.
As for their girls, the children didn’t request anything in particular, the parents said.
“They’re happy with whatever they get,” the dad said.
