By: Mavis Cropp

The holiday season brings joy, but many families in our community could use extra help to buy gifts for their loved ones. To help, The 84 Post “adopted” 10 children, or angels, through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.

The Salvation Army was founded in 1865 with a mission to “do the most good.” Now, the Salvation Army has locations in every county in the U.S. as well as in 136 countries.

Many 84 Post parents and students graciously volunteered to help collect more than 80 presents for our adopted children, who ranged from three months to nine years old. “It’s all worth it when we see the kids’ smiling faces and the parents grateful for our help. It shows us we’re making a difference,” said sixth grader Molly Towns who donated baby clothes and a winter coat.

Duke Haddad, Director of Corporate Development at Salvation Army said the program will fulfill gifts for 5,000 Central Indiana children this year. Haddad and Angel Tree Coordinator Tabitha Leslie will work with 300 volunteers to carry out the program. “So many people in our community need help. People’s lives can be changed with this simple act of kindness. Participating in that is the greatest feeling of giving you could ever have,” said Haddad.

We thank the parents of the 84 Post who donated gifts. We encourage our readers to find ways to give back in our community and spread the joy of the holiday season.

The 84 Post staff with gifts for the Salvation Army Angels.

Photo Credit: Parent

Elyse Bani helps bag presents for the adopted kids.

Photo Credit: Parent