Angel Tree gives back to KMC families

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Caitlin O'Neil-McKeown
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  
The Angel Tree program kicked off Nov. 16 in the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center as the 86th Airlift Wing commander, Brig. Gen. C.K. Hyde, gave opening remarks and then helped crown this year's tree with its angel.

The Angel Tree program helps provide financial relief through the purchase of gifts for children. Contributions can come in the form of an Army and Air Force Exchange Service or Commissary gift card.

In 2011, 251 KMC families and 482 children received donations through this program.

"This program directly supports our core value of service before self," said Hyde. "Along with developing professional Airmen, Warriors and Leaders, one of our wing priorities is providing exceptional quality of life. Our Angel Tree program directly contributes to quality of life for our most needy families."

Referrals are made through the KMC first sergeants as well as private self-nominations. The recommended ages of participants are zero to 15 years old. Self-nominations can be made by contacting the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

"I think the angel tree is phenomenal, and a great program Air Force wide," said Dana Doan, A&FRC consultant, "We all have times that are tight when finances are low, so I think when that happens a family can look at this and know that during the holiday season, their child won't go without."

To help spread holiday cheer to a family in need, donate at one of the 10 trees in the KMC. Locations include the Ramstein North and South Chapels, Ramstein Express, Ramstein and Vogelweh Commissaries, as well as the Vogelweh Chapel and Shoppette.

Each tree is set up at a different location and is sponsored by either an individual unit or by a private organization. To donate, take an envelope from a tree and then return it with a gift card or cash enclosed to any of the tree locations by Dec. 13. Distribution of the gift cards to the families will be completed by the first sergeants.

For more information about the Angel Tree program, contact the A&FRC at 480-5100 or 06371-475100.