Salvation Army volunteers deliver gifts up under Angel Tree
Dec. 22—THOMASVILLE- Salvation Army of Thomasville employees had the chance to play Santa on Thursday morning, as they passed out more than 700 bags of goodies to children and seniors listed on their Angel Tree.
According to Sgt. Robyn Hickey, the Salvation Army provided for 782 children, while supplying for 148 seniors this season, which is above average for the annual gift-giving event.
However, Hickey said the community really stepped up to help fill the needs of all children, who come from Thomas, Grady and Brooks County.
Hickey began to feel panicked on Wednesday afternoon as 58 children still needed to be bought for, but as always God provided.
She said three different individuals who only adopted one angel, purchased extra to give to other angels who may need it.
Additionally, Lang, Vann and Associates donated $1,000 toward the Salvation Army, so employees could go purchase items on the angel's wishlists.
"It was wonderful," she said."I'm so thankful for this community. When I was worried about these 58 kids, God provided and sent these angels in to help our angels."
The donations don't go unnoticed by Hickey or the families who receive the gifts.
"The parents are so grateful, especially when they see the big bags, bikes or hoverboards," she said.
One of the mothers, who received support from the Salvation Army was overjoyed.
"Getting support from the Salvation Army is a big help," she said. "Me and my family are very grateful for the gifts we are receiving. It's a blessing to us and I really appreciate them as an organization coming together and doing this."
The woman, who has three children, a 6-year-old, a 7-year-old and a two month old said all three of her kids still believed in Santa and her oldest two got to meet the Jolly Man himself.
By Salvation Army gifting the items in a big red sack, she is able to still have the joy of playing Santa and hiding the gifts before the children see them on Christmas morning.
