Christmas gifts pour in for thousands of Central Florida children

3,600 angels to receive gifts Christmas morning

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 and Salvation Army volunteers of all ages are working to make sure children in Central Florida have something special to open Christmas morning through the Angel Tree program.

On Sunday, volunteers like 11-year-old Alius Aldahondo sorted through piles of items donated for 3,600 angels that are a part of this year's program.

"It makes me feel good because I'm helping the other kids that have been forgotten," Aldahondo said.

Angel Tree Manager James Milner said there are more angels this year than last because of recent devastating storms.

 "This year, we've actually seen an increase because of the hurricanes. We've had a lot of evacuees come to Central Florida and they've seeked assistance from us as well," Milner said.

But the room full of donated bicycles, stacks of clothing and mounds of toys show Central Floridians didn't shy away from the challenge of making Christmas merry for those children.

Volunteers said they hope the stocking stuffers and other gifts will put smiles on children's faces Christmas morning.

 "I'm happy for these children who are getting the presents," Alijah Aldahondo said.

Milner said it's not always easy for people to give, especially if they buy gifts for their own friends and family for the holiday, but every donation is appreciated.

"We know times are tough but we are just overwhelmed with how many items per child has come in and we're very grateful to the community for their generosity in this time of season," Milner said.

Each angel represents a child’s wish list, from infants through age 14, who might not have a Christmas if it weren't for donations. There were no forgotten angels in 2016.

The deadline to drop off Angel Tree gifts was Saturday, but program officials said monetary donations are still being collected and will be used to buy gifts for angels whose presents might not have been returned.


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