Christmastime is a season of giving. And while giving gifts to our loved ones is the main event of the holiday, many are considering giving to those in need.
Over the last few weeks, social media has been filled with people participating in Angel Trees, ensuring children in need can open gifts on Christmas morning.
But what exactly are “Angel Trees” and where would I even find them? Here’s what Floridians wanting to participate need to know.
What is an ‘Angel Tree’? How does it work?
Angel Tree is a 40-year-old collaboration between The Salvation Army and Walmart that helps provide clothes and toys for kids in need every Christmas.
Usually, Christmas trees have tags hung from the branches. Each tag has the general information (name, gender, age) of a child in need and their Christmas wish list.
“The Salvation Army Angel Tree program provides new clothing and toys to more than one million children in need each year,” the Salvation Army’s website says. “Once a child is accepted as an Angel, donors like you can shop for their Christmas wish list.”
While most tags feature toddlers to preteens, some trees also include teenagers and seniors.
Can anyone participate in an Angel Tree?
Yup! You can “adopt” a child by grabbing a tag and grabbing the items on the list, or you can help by donating online.
Where can I find Angel Trees in Florida?
You can find Angel Trees at Walmart and Sam’s Club, as well as churches, community centers, malls and some local businesses.
To find some near you, check out the Salvation Army’s database.
Is there a deadline for donating to Angel Trees?
Yes, however, it is not universal. Angel Tree stops accepting donations for Christmas 2025 anywhere from Dec. 6 to Dec. 16. Check with your local Salvation Army to see when their deadline is.
How to apply for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program in 2026
While the deadline has passed for those in need to sign up for Angel Trees, they can prepare for the next holiday season. Most Salvation Army chapters open registration for inclusion on Angel Trees on their website in the fall, typically from September to October.
According to its website, the Salvation Army collects information to determine eligibility for the program and to provide details on each Angel, which may include, but are not limited to:
Contributing: Lianna Norman, USA TODAY NETWORK Florida
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: What are Angel Trees? What to know, where to find them in Florida
Reporting by Samantha Neely, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Fort Myers News-Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
