Salvation Army seeks help in Chattanooga

Friday, January 1, 1904

TO GIVEMoney donations are needed to buy gifts for children and seniors. Donations can be placed in any Red Kettle, mailed to 822 McCallie Ave., made online at www.csarmy.org or by calling 1-800-Sal-Army.TO ADOPT AN ANGELSelect an angel from a tree at Northgate, Hamilton Place or Bradley Square malls. Purchase gifts and return them to the Angel Tree table near the tree. A volunteer will be at the table to answer questions or provide assistance. Gifts may also be dropped off at the Salvation Army office on McCallie Avenue. For more information visit www.csarmy.org.

With angels representing more than 1,200 needy seniors and children still hanging on its Angel Trees, Salvation Army officials are extending the giving deadline for one week, to Dec. 9.

"In reality this is a very generous community. When we notify folk and let them know the need, more often than not, they step up and help," said Kimberly George, director of marketing and development.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree provides Christmas assistance for needy children, their families and senior citizens who would not otherwise receive gifts, including necessities like food and warm clothing, according to a Salvation Army news release.

David Moore, chief news videographer at WDEF-TV Channel 12, said he could imagine what Christmas would have been like during his youth without help from the Salvation Army. His mother and father were going through a divorce, and his mom went to the Salvation Army to provide Christmas for her six children. "Everybody needs something under the tree," said Moore.

Angels for 914 people remain on trees in Northgate Mall and Hamilton Place in Chattanooga, and 324 still hang at the Bradley Square Mall in Cleveland, said George.

Salvation Army officials also are concerned that some people have selected angels but haven't returned the gifts purchased for the person. The deadline to return gifts will also be extended to Dec. 9.

The local Salvation Army registered 4,763 Angels this year, a 39 percent increase from three years ago, said George.

Red Kettles collections are also slow.

"As of today we have collected a total of $130,161.50 which is far from where we need to be by Dec. 24, said Major Al Newsome in a Salvation Army news release. The goal is $400,000. Monetary donations are needed to purchase gifts for children and seniors.