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Community Corner

Help Brighten a Child's Christmas with the Angel Giving Tree

The Salvation Army helps bring Christmas gifts to the less fortunate.

With the country still trying to make an economic recovery and the unemployment rate still at 9 percent, some families have to make the tough decision between paying for necessities, such as food and housing, and buying presents for their children during the holiday season.

The Salvation Army Angel Giving Tree program lets ordinary people play Santa and pick out presents to help these children have an enjoyable Christmas.

Each child makes a Christmas list with three or four toys that they really want along with their clothes sizes. The lists are then distributed at local malls including Eastpoint and White Marsh Malls as well as all J.C Penney stores and online.

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Donors pick their specific Angels, take the list with them, shop for the items and then return them to the mall.

Janet Ambrosino of Dundalk, a volunteer who works at the Salvation Army booths at the malls, feels fortunate that she can help children in need.

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“My family is blessed that we have everything we need,” said Ambrosino. “It means so much for children to have toys and clothes under the Christmas tree. We just want to make it a special time for everyone.”

Donations will be accepted until December 17.

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