A missed deadline takes on a whole new meaning when a child’s Christmas hangs in the balance. Friday was the last day to turn in gifts for The Salvation Army of Washington’s Angel Tree project, but organizers say close to half of the needs remain unfilled.

The Angel Tree program relies on the generosity of local churches, organizations and individuals in the communities to provide for the Christmas needs and wishes of local children who need help the most.

More than 400 kids and their families in the organization’s six-county service area are looking to The Salvation Army of Washington for a Merry Christmas this year, but The Salvation Army Lt. Teresa Bush says at least 200 Angel Tree needs have yet to be returned.

Bush says this includes both Angel Tree tags still on trees in local stores and tags that have been taken from trees but not yet returned.

“We do have a big church that’s bringing some Monday,” Bush said. “But I’m at 200-plus that have still not come in. Today was the deadline, but Monday’s going to be the absolute latest, because we have to have time to process.”

It’s that processing that can become time-consuming. Each donation must be unwrapped by Salvation Army staff, placed in clear plastic bags and sorted for delivery. Along the way, staff members add supplemental toys or clothes if needed, to make sure each child has what they need and at least a few gifts that will light up their eyes on Christmas morning.

“We just want to get the kids taken care of,” Bush said. “That’s our biggest concern.”

HOW TO HELP

• Pick up an Angel Tree tag over the weekend. The tags are still available at Walmart stores in Washington and Williamston, as well as The Salvation Army Family Stores in Washington and Chocowinity. Each tag contains requested gifts and clothing sizes for a child. Donations should be new and unwrapped.
• Help by donating toys to help supplement Angel Tree gifts. Gift items for girls and boys ages 10-12 are most needed, but toys for all ages are appreciated.
• Support The Salvation Army financially. Funds donated to The Salvation Army can be used to help meet unfulfilled needs left over from the Angel Tree program.
• Volunteer with The Salvation Army. Bell ringers for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign are always welcome and appreciated. To volunteer, contact Denise Cahoon at 252-946-2523.

Completed Angel Tree gift bags, as well as supplemental gifts and financial donations can be delivered to The Salvation Army of Washington at 112 E. Seventh St., Washington. Donations to the local branch can also be made at www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/washington.