Video: Project Noel In Houston Is Bringing Christmas Cheer

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HOUSTON, Miss. (WCBI)-It was a tradition that started 20 years ago when one Houston woman wanted to provide a little Christmas cheer for children less fortunate. That tradition continues as the town of Houston gets ready for Project Noel.

The sites and sounds of Christmas surround us all. It’s season that is meant to bring joy to all, but for some. Financial pressures can drain the holiday spirit.

Leigh Ann Howell, one of the new chairwoman of the drive, says working this event has shown her how blessed she really is.

“It’s really an eye opener for me. We take things for granted and we seem to be spoiled. And so it just lets us see that there are people that are less fortunate that need help,” says Leigh Ann Howell.

And help is in the hands of these Houston volunteers. Through the Salvation Army, they created Project Noel. Their goal is to make sure no child goes without on Christmas morning.

Many churches and businesses throughout the community have Angel trees like this one here at First Methodist Church in Houston. Each cared had details of the child’s gender, age and size so when it comes to Christmas shopping it makes it a little easier.

“Complete set of clothing, shoes, and a toy appropriate for that child. Some people will even donate additional items like necessities: toothbrushes, toothpaste and books,” says Patricia Finn.

For Ashley Brooks, adopting children for Christmas has been a tradition in her family for years. This year her family adopted four little girls to buy presents for.

“It’s less stressful to me than doing it for my own children. I just know I would love to see their faces on Christmas morning when they probably get something that they don’t have or more than they already have. But it really gives you joy,” says Ashley Brooks.

While Project Noel is off to a good start, there are still 40 children left to adopt before Christmas morning.

If you live in the Houston area and would like to adopt an angel, just call the Houston Salvation Army for more details.