Salvation Army of Johnson City opens Angel Tree registration

JOHNSON CITY — The Salvation Army of Johnson City is preparing to open its registration for the annual Angel Tree Christmas Assistance program Thursday evening, according to a press release. A more than four decades long program, it provides Christmas gifts to children whose families are facing financial difficulties across the nation. Last year, the Salvation Army of Johnson City's angel tree program provided more than 700 children with boxes within Washington, Carter, Unicoi and Greene Counties. "Angel Tree is about much more than presents under a Christmas tree," Ally Holmes, development manager, said in the release. "Christmas can be a stressful and difficult time for families who are struggling to make ends meet. Through Angel Tree, our community comes together to remind parents and children that they are seen, valued, and loved. Every gift represents hope and the compassion of neighbors who want to make a difference." Registration for recipient families will take place at the organization's administrative office, located at 204 West Walnut St., on the following days: Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Parents and caregivers seeking assistance this upcoming holiday season through the program must register in person and meet the following requirements: Applicants must provide proof of residency within the counties served, which includes Washington, Carter, Unicoi and Greene Counties Parents or guardians may apply for children ages zero through 18 Pregnant women may apply for a child who is due to be born before Dec. 31 Documentation verifying proof of custody must be presented, which includes a birth certificate, social security card, adoption papers or custody documents Applicants must provide proof of low income, which may include documentation of SNAP or food stamps, government assistance benefits, a current paystub or a letter from an employer Applicants may only register for assistance through one agency Applicants must be line before the registration window closes The nonprofit is also seeking volunteers to be able to make the Angel Tree program possible, the release states. Duties of a volunteer include family intake and registration, gift collection and sorting at the warehouse and gift distribution. For information about how to volunteer, or make a donation to the program, contact Allison Osteen at 423-926-2101 or allison.osteen@uss.salvationarmy.org.