Salvation Army’s Angel Tree: giving light to a community one toy at a time

MACON, Georgia(41NBC/WMGT)-The gift of giving has once again served as a present to all. Today, the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Campaign distributed gifts so hundreds of needy families could celebrate Christmas with all the bells and whistles to match.

After weeks of collecting donations, being a part of that moment was all worth while for organizers.

“It’s just a really fun time to see their smiling expressions and the thankfulness they have for this program,” said Salvation Army area commander Frances Gilliam.

Volunteers of all ages came to be apart of what was a joyous moment for many parents–picking up toys to put under the tree for their little angels at home.

Patricia Carter traveled all the way from Baton Rouge, Louisiana to see the spirit of the holidays up close and personal.

“I just like to help others who are less fortunate and its just a gift from god that I’m able to do it and I just love seeing people happy,” she said.

Carter has been a volunteer with the Salvation Army since 2004.

Even at just ten years old, Jack Seorrigan understands the impact of paying it forward so he woke up bright and early this morning to volunteer with his grandfather.

“Some families and children don’t have a lot of toys and its just nice to give them some stuff,” he said.

For this group of volunteers, being a part of something greater than self may cost time and effort, but the feeling of giving back is truly priceless.

For more information on how to get involved with the Salvation Army, click here.