DOTHAN, Ala. – It is that time of year again for the Salvation Army, hundreds of bags of toys and clothes along with boxes of food were distributed to those in need in our community for the holiday season.
“These kids are going to have a great Christmas this year,” Captain Deanne Jones, Salvation Army of Dothan, said.
Among 195 families this year the Salvation Army sought help from the community to adopt about 400 angels for the Angel Tree Program. There are 15 senior centers that are receiving food boxes for Christmas meals.
“We facilitate this but without the donors and the people that are adopting these angels we couldn’t do it without them and I’m just so thankful for their generosity,” Captain Jones said.
Even after a difficult year the community persisted and all angels were fulfilled.
“Every kid, no matter what their families are going through, they are able to say you know, ‘I got a baby alive,’ or you know ‘I got that pogo stick,’ that we keep mentioning,” Captain Jones said. “So we’re just making sure these kids know they are loved and valued no matter what.”
Volunteers of all ages gather at the Farm Center to distribute hundreds of bags of toys and clothes and boxes of food.
“Volunteer to have a great Christmas,” Charley Camp, volunteer, said.
Making a difference after a tough year for many –
“Maybe people this year that usually can’t afford Christmas couldn’t do it this year and so I know they had an influx in people this year and so we’re really excited to come out here and help spread some Christmas cheer and help some families in need,” Hayden Camp, volunteer, said.
The Salvation Army distribution in Dothan has always been drive thru, making it easier for families to get in and out.
“The Wiregrass area, they have been so generous,” Captain Jones said. “Everyone knows that COVID-19 has made things really difficult and hard, but to see the generosity of the donors and what they’ve given to these kids is just amazing.”
Allowing kids to wake up on Christmas morning and have gifts under the tree while providing a sense of normalcy.
Captain Jones said it truly is better to give than to receive.
