Share holiday spirit through giving

7 Nov 2006 | Staff Sgt. Paul Haley

The holidays are once again upon us, bringing with them the joy of the season, highlighted by the fellowship of family and friends, and the spirit of generosity.
The 446th Airlift Wing Family Support Center is providing easy access to the joy of generosity by soliciting donations for the Angel Tree and holiday baskets for families in need.
The Angel Tree is an anonymous gift exchange for children of Reservists and civilian employees of the wing. The tree is located in Bldg. 1207 near the Family Support Center and has cards hanging as ornaments indicating the age, gender and size of children hoping for a Christmas gift, said Tech. Sgt. Michael Bray, family support technician at the center.
As of the end of October, no one had donated any gifts, which is disturbing to the center.
"We only have a few UTAs left until Christmas, so this is pretty late in the game to not have any presents," he said.
In addition to the Angel Tree, the center is accepting donations to buy holiday dinners for families of the 446th AW.
People can give money to buy dinners, or donate to the food bank, Sergeant Bray said.
Last year, Destiny Christian Center donated nine food baskets, $650 in gift cards and nine calling cards. Senior Master Sgt. Theodore Stanley, first sergeant for the 446th Maintenance Operations Flight, spearheaded the collection effort by Destiny.
As well as asking for members of the 446th to provide help to the programs, the Family Support Center also needs to be referred to families that could use help this holiday season.
Anyone can refer a family. Simply download the referral form from the sharepoint under 446 AW>446 MSG>446 MSS>Family Support, and turn it in to the Family Support Center personally or attached to an e-mail, Sergeant Bray said.
One problem with the program, however, is participation. Many families who could use help this time of year aren't getting it, and donations don't always come in from those who can afford it, said Sergeant Bray.
"We can put together this great program, but if no one participates, it won't work. If no one picks up cards or refers people, it won't go anywhere," he said.