AUGUSTA, Ga. – At the site of the former Terrace Manor School on Tate Road, the Salvation Army of Augusta brought festive cheer to life by distributing gifts as part of their longstanding Angel Tree initiative on Thursday. This heartwarming program has been a beacon of hope for families since the 1960s, fulfilling children’s holiday wish lists with toys, stockings, bicycles, and clothing for those who might otherwise go without.

Rose Brown, one of the devoted volunteers, shared her heartfelt perspective on the initiative, saying, “It touches your heart. It really does, because it’s just helping other people. We have to learn how to do that so that we can have that peace.”

Reflecting on the impact of the program, Jonathan Raymer, Major Area Commander of the Salvation Army of Augusta, highlighted the emotional moments shared with grateful families. “The value and importance of this is helping a mother who is dressed, ready to go to work, just, you know, tearing up, saying thank you at least 20 times as we’re putting the gifts in her vehicle,” he expressed. “We can’t do that without the donors. We can’t do that without amazing volunteers.”

This year, the Angel Tree campaign reached over 1,200 children, ensuring they received gifts that might otherwise remain a distant dream. Such community spirit underscores the true essence of the holiday season, as donors and volunteers come together to brighten the lives of so many.

This year, more than 1,200 children received gifts.

Photojournalist credit: Regynal McKie