Help spread Christmas cheer with the Giving Tree at Hype
By Sarah Shurge – Most of us think about what a magical time Christmas is for our children, but we may not think about how Christmas can be difficult for those struggling financially. Parents that want to make the holidays special for their children but financially can’t afford to.
The good news is, there’s a way you can get involved and help make a difference for those families!
“You can help through the Giving Tree,” said Andy Barylski, ENVOY, Wayne Westland Salvation Army administrator. “You take a tag off the tree and purchase items that are needed/wanted.”
The Giving Tree is an annual project the Salvation Army hosts around the Christmas season to assist families in need within the community or surrounding communities.
The tree has a bunch of tags available for the community to grab. Each tag has an age, gender, and suggested (by the family) items for the child. Families sign up for assistance in November and all families have been determined “in need” by the Salvation Army.
Items can include: toys, coats, hats, gloves, and more.
Once you have purchased your items listed on the tag, you can drop them off at an Angel Tree location or to the Salvation Army. It’s that simple.
“All donations received go back to support the local community,” said Barylski. “There are struggling people in our neighborhood, and this is a way to make a difference right here. It makes a direct impact in our community.”
Barylski has been with the Salvation Army for almost 20 years, serving under his current title for five years, and been a Wayne resident for five years as well.
“My favorite part is seeing how the work we do makes a direct impact with people that benefit from our services,” said Barylski.
Item distribution begins Monday, December 16th, and ends on Friday, December 20th. The Salvation Army is still in need of adopters/people to participate in the Giving Tree.
“It’s a great opportunity to make a difference in our community for those in need during the holiday season,” said Barylski.
If you have any questions regarding how to get involved with the Giving Tree, call (734)722-3660, or visit centralusa.salvationarmy.org/wayne-westland
The Salvation Army Wayne Westland Corps Community Center is located at 2300 S Venoy Rd, Westland, and is open Monday – Saturday 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. and 24 hours on Sunday.
Be sure to pick up a tag, purchase those items, bring them to a location, and make a difference this holiday season!