Salvation Army urges community to rally for Angel Tree families, fill in gift donation shortfall

The Salvation Army urges the community to support Angel Tree wishes around the Garden Isle as a shortfall in gift donations — in the face of heightened demand — threatens to impact this year’s distribution days and holiday joy for families in need.

More than 1,000 keiki and kūpuna from the island are set to be served by the Angel Tree program; however, many could miss the chance for Christmas gifts without the public’s help to fill the gaps.

“While we are deeply grateful for all those that already shared their Angel Tree aloha this year, we’ve received less donations than in previous years across our Kauaʻi collection sites while the need has grown,” said The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Divisional Commander Maj. Troy Trimmer in the organization’s call to action. “We are in particular need of more toys — or funds we can use to buy missing toys — to ensure the remaining wishes can be filled in time for our distributions that are traditionally such heartwarming events.”

The Hanapēpē Corps reports that its Angel Tree registrations increased 50% this year, with more than 100 Angel Tree tags still waiting to be fulfilled.

Additionally, the Līhuʻe Corps is navigating an increase in Angel Tree family sign-ups.

Popular keiki items include LEGO and building sets, craft and art supplies and active toys for outdoor play.

The greatest areas of need at the Hanapēpē Corps Include:

• Toys for boys ages 3 to 10 years old.
• Toys for girls ages 5 to 12 years old.
• Funds to purchase the remaining gifts of registered individuals, with an estimated need of $6,000.

Unwrapped gifts can be dropped off at both Corps locations. Drop-off windows are:

• 2 to 6 p.m. Dec. 16-19: Hanapēpē Corps, located at 4465 Pūʻolo Road.
• 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 15-18: Līhuʻe Corps, located at 4182 Hardy St.

Donations also can be made online to Virtual Red Kettles set up for the Hanapēpē and Līhuʻe Corps Community Centers.

Virtual Red Kettle donations qualify for a match from The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, doubling the impact of any gift.

Email to aloha.hawaii@usw.salvationarmy.org for additional information.