Angel Tree Distribution

What an incredible experience! I've bought Angel Tree gifts before, but I've never been on this side of things. Wow. If you get the opportunity to do so, volunteer, it will change you and your outlook on Christmas, giving and charity! We were there from 8:30am to 6:00pm. It was a long day for me, but so worth it. I started out by handing out the assigned gifts to the recipients. Then the Salvation Army (Major is his title I think) guy in charge asked me to do his job of checking everyone in while he did his interview with the TV channel. So there I remained for the rest of the day. It was a little easier on me, no lifting. The other volunteers were so friendly and all worked their patooties off. There was a slow peiord right after lunch where we all pitched in to fill requests for the tags not picked on the public trees. It was fun to shop from all of the donations for these kids. Even though the choices were limited. I definitely learned what items to donate for next year. Boy things for sure. We seemed to be lacking toys and clothing items for boys. Also, items for both boys and girls ages 11 and 12. The older children don't receive as much as the little ones do. They also need more clothes and specifically shoes. Lastly, the most simple stuff like wrapping paper and tape. Most of these families can't even afford paper to wrap their gifts. Kristin and I gave money to a lady asking for paper so she could go buy some. The recipients were so humble and thankful. There were a few who cried when they saw the gifts that their children would be opening on Christmas morning. That was very thouching to see. The Salvation Army provided lunch which was so nice of them. My parents went on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Kristin went on Wednesday and Thursday. Cass and I just went on Wednesday. I was pretty beat up today, but of course we were both wishing we would have gone with the rest of them. Eric went down with Kristin today. They are there now, I hope he is enjoying the experience. I am so happy that I was able to help. I cannot wait for next year.