Tupelo Salvation Army helps provide Christmas joy to those in need
TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) – The Tupelo Salvation Army provided Christmas joy to those who need a little extra help this holiday season.
“The Angel Tree is a program that identifies needy families in our community and connects them with donors in our community to provide hope and Christmas assistance,” said Captain Le Anna Marion, Tupelo Salvation Army.
Marion knows first-hand the positive impact that the Angel Tree program has on families.
“There were many Christmases that the gifts that I got from the Salvation Army were the only gifts that I got. And it really was amazing to be able to put down some wishes and get those fulfilled. And I did not know it was the Salvation Army when I was younger. I did not find out until I was older, but it really did help out my parents as well. They were two working-class individuals, and it was just a struggle to make ends meet for their three kids. So, if Angel Tree did not help them out, then they would have had a struggle providing gifts for their family,” said Marion.
Two Shannon High School students, Marquallen Perkins and Jayla Beaty, volunteered their time and energy ahead of Christmas.
“I just wanted to give back to the community because I know how much these presents mean to people,” said Perkins.
“I’m a giving person and this is a good thing to do for the community,” said Beaty.
The students are fulfilled to ease any stress for parents this holiday season.
“They don’t have to worry about it because it is already done for them, so they can relax,” said Beaty.
“They don’t have to spend too much money on presents. So, they have it easier,” said Perkins.
