Getting a gift on Christmas Day often provides lifelong memories of joy and happiness for a child. For children in need whose parents cannot afford to buy a gift, The Salvation Army Angel Tree often fills a void that is greatly appreciated by youngsters who get a gift from the tree.

People who make this possible by donating to The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree will make this Christmas memorable for needy children and their families. “Without your help, some children won’t get anything for Christmas,” said Major Adam Morales, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.

People who want to help need to pick up an Angel Tree tag with the gift listed on the tag. “The Angel Tree matches donors with hundreds of children who rely on The Salvation Army this year to bring them a Merry Christmas,” said Major Morales.

Tags are available at the Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino, at 500 Inland Center Drive, and at nearby Walmart stores. Donations received there will provide toys to children from 400 disadvantaged families in the inland empire.

“Please support disadvantaged children with a Christmas gift at the Angel Tree by visiting our table in the Inland Center Mall and fulfilling a child’s wishes from now until December 22nd,” said Major Morales.

Shoppers will find cards attached to the Angel Tree. These cards include the names and wish lists of needy children whose families cannot afford to buy gifts. Shoppers pluck a tag off the Angel Tree and head for the appropriate store to purchase their gift donations, then return it to the Angel Tree volunteers. Shoppers get to keep the card as an ornament to hang on their own Christmas tree, reminding them of their good deed.

“This is a great way to start a tradition with your family by selecting a gift for a child in need. The gifts are based on their wishes, and for some children, it may be the only gift they receive all year,” said Major Morales.

“Legos, board games, and clothes are just a few items on the children’s wish lists,” said Major Morales. “Shoppers who participate in the program are encouraged to shop for more than what is needed on the list. I can’t think of a better way for local people, including business owners and managers, to help the community and spread the spirit of Christmas.”

For more information on the Angel Tree, call Steven Pinckney at (909) 792-6868 or visit the tree in the Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino.

The Salvation Army also needs food: turkeys, hams and canned foods, as well as cash, checks or gift cards. These can be dropped off at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373, or at the Hospitality House at 925 W. 10th St., San Bernardino.

Donations can be made online at sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

The Salvation Army may provide emergency services, including food, lodging for homeless or displaced families, clothing and furniture, assistance with rent or mortgage, and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) assists rescue workers and evacuees in disasters like fires.

The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1888, supporting those in need without discrimination.