Salvation Army extends adopt an angel, gift drop-offs for Angel Tree program

The Salvation Army is working diligently to make sure every child has a Christmas gift. The deadline for their Angel Tree initiative was Sunday, Dec. 9, but they’re extending it.

"We have over 500 angels that haven’t even been taken off of our tree,” Salvation Army Captain Jay Spalding said.

The Park Plaza mall will now take gifts until Wednesday, Dec. 12, and the McCain Mall will take gifts until Sunday, Dec. 16.

Staff aren't sure why there’s a lag this year, but they’re asking for the community’s help.

“We’re getting clothes and toys for these kids for Christmas that might not have anything,” Spalding said.

Here’s how it works: You simply pick an angel off their angel tree at the McCain or Park Plaza Mall, buy the listed items like clothes and a toy, then drop them back off at the same location.

“On our angel, you’ll see their sizes their wishes and maybe a family need,” Spalding said.

Many children need basic necessities.

"When you see those needs, whether it’s a coat or a new pair of shoes or you know just some warm clothes or socks or underwear that just makes the biggest difference,” Spalding said.

One little elf brought gifts to help other children.

“It makes me feel like if I was that child it would be amazing that people would try to help,” a donor said.

She encourages others to do the same.

“Think of what you would feel like if you were that kid that got stuff from other people that you don’t even know and how people care if you have a good Christmas or not,” the donor added.

They’re also facing another issue. There are about a thousand angels that have been taken off of the tree but no gifts have been brought in for them. If you don't have time to shop, you can make a monetary donation at both malls.