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Scott participates in Angel Tree programs

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Maria Bowman
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  The holiday season can be an exciting time for many families, but for some it can bring feelings of stress and disappointment if they are struggling financially. To help those families, both in the military community here and in the local area, there are two Angel Tree programs being sponsored by the base.

One Angel Tree program is sponsored by the Scott First Sergeants Group is for military or military-affiliated families, and is located at the entrance of the Exchange now through Dec. 16.

Senior Master Sgt. Ryan Hutchison, 18th Air Force first sergeant, said, "Whether they just got to Scott AFB, or are having financial difficulties or going through a stressful or traumatic situation, we try to provide a gift to a child who may not otherwise receive one."

Those wishing to help can pick up a tag that is hanging on the tree, donate a gift, place the tag on the gift and put it in the drop box, which is located next to the angel tree.

"There are a lot of programs throughout the holiday season to support those in need," said Hutchison. "We can directly impact those families who may be going through difficult times and provide cheer for a family during the holidays."

For those who would like to help out families in the local community, they can find a two Angel Trees sponsored by the Chapel Office--one at Chapel 1 and one at Chapel 2 during Sunday services. They will be up until Dec. 15, and donations to these trees will go to families in East St. Louis.

Heather Nieves, the 375th Chapel Catholic coordinator, said, "Every year, the chapel displays an Angel Tree to help provide gifts to children residing in East St. Louis. This year we have agreed to sponsor 200 children from just born to 18 years old. It's important for our youth to see that there's a great need to help our local community, and as adults, it's important that we lead by example. It's our hope that everyone who picks up an angel will feel a true sense of community involvement and get great joy out of knowing that their contribution will make a child's Christmas extremely special."

Any questions about the Angle Tree at the Exchange can be answered by any first sergeant, and questions about the trees sponsored by the Chapel should be directed to Nieves at 256-3962.