By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The holiday season will be brighter for hundreds of children in the Laguna Madre community thanks to The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, which is providing Christmas gifts to families in need through the Port Isabel Service Unit in Laguna Vista.
Angel Tree is a long-standing holiday tradition of The Salvation Army, designed to ensure children receive gifts even when families face financial hardship. Families who may not be in a position to provide Christmas presents are able to register with the program, allowing their children’s needs to be met through community donations. Generous donors and businesses adopt angel tags, purchase requested gifts, and return them to The Salvation Army for distribution.
The Angel Tree program began in 1979 in Lynchburg, Virginia, when Salvation Army officers Majors Charles and Shirley White were inspired by an angel-themed Hallmark greeting card. They created angel tags listing children’s Christmas needs—such as toys and clothing—and placed them on a tree in a local mall for shoppers to adopt. The concept quickly grew into a national effort supported by communities across the country.
Locally, the program continues to expand. This year, more than 300 children in the Laguna Madre community will receive gifts through Angel Tree. Organizers say both the need for assistance and the level of community support have increased.
“This year, the community really stepped up in a way we have never seen before,” said Julie Gaucin, their service extenstion rep, noting that the increased generosity allowed the Port Isabel Service Unit to significantly expand its offerings. Duvie Woods, the Commissioner Secretary Place 1 on the Port Isabel-San Benito Navigation Board reportedly donated $1000 this year.
Months of planning led up to distribution day, marking the successful completion of the program’s local efforts. Board members and volunteers worked to organize, sort, and prepare gifts for families. On distribution day, families were assigned a unique family code to ensure a smooth and dignified pickup process. For parents unable to attend due to work or other obligations, alternative pickup times or home delivery were arranged. Organizers confirmed that every family who registered for Angel Tree assistance this year had their wish fulfilled.
The Angel Tree program operates entirely through volunteer efforts and community donations. Local individuals, families, and businesses adopt angel tags, making it possible for children to receive gifts on Christmas morning.
Residents interested in supporting Angel Tree in the future are encouraged to get involved year-round. Volunteer opportunities extend beyond the holiday season and include Angel Tree assistance, Red Kettle bell ringing, and other Salvation Army programs. Those interested may contact chairperson Olga Vega Carter at 956-433-6291 or Julie Gaucin at 936-414-8991, or email Julie.Gaucin@uss.salvationarmy.org for more information.
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