Students and staff are giving gifts through the Salvation Army Angel Tree program.

By Grace VanDeSteeg and McKenzey Crowley

Central High School students and staff have taken 27 Angel Tree tags from the Christmas tree by the main entrance, leaving 33 more opportunities for Cobblers to help families in need during the holiday season.

The 60 tags carrying various ages and genders were delivered to Central High School on Monday , November 12th by the Salvation Army, and students from Central are very excited about this year’s Angel Tree.

“I’m hyped, I’m so pumped!” said Jhet Birchem, a member of the National Honors Society (NHS), which initiated the effort. He said students find it to be an easy and fun way to give back. “It’s an amazing thing and one of the most easy charity things you can do. It’s on your own time,” Birchem said. “Can you imagine how excited you would be if you got the Nerf gun you’ve always wanted?” he added.

After collecting gifts, the Salvation Army opens a “toy store” for a limited time. Tables holding games, toys, stuffed animals, and even wrapping paper are available to make the experience just that much better. All families (no children allowed) are able to register to come in and pick perfect gifts for their children.

“These gifts are for children who will only receive one gift,” said Jennifer Mueller, the NHS advisor.

NHS members encourage anyone to participate. The NHS has asked that all of the purchased gifts be returned to the Main Office by December 14th. Many other locations throughout the community also house an Angel Tree, so Central is not the only location participating.