The Joseph Center, a Grand Junction nonprofit, is urging the community to step up and participate in its Angel Tree program, a collaboration with the Bank of Colorado, to provide holiday gifts for local families in need. As the December 13th deadline looms, the organization highlights a shortfall in gift returns, leaving many children’s holiday wishes unfulfilled.
How the Angel Tree Program Works
Jessica Martinez, Outreach Coordinator at the Joseph Center, explained how the initiative connects generous donors with families in need.
“The Angel Tree is a collaboration between the Joseph Center and Bank of Colorado, where we are trying to bring some families in need a little extra help this holiday season,” Martinez shared.
Here’s how it works:
- Families in need are matched with “angels” representing their children.
- Angel tags are placed on trees located at Bank of Colorado branches in Grand Junction.
- Donors take an angel tag, purchase a gift for the child, and return it to the bank.
While many tags have been picked up, a significant number of gifts have yet to be returned.
The Clock is Ticking
With only days remaining before the donation deadline, Martinez voiced concern over the slow return of gifts.
“We’re seeing that a lot of the tags have been taken from certain locations, but only like three or four gifts have been returned,” she noted.
The final day to donate is December 13th, as the Joseph Center aims to distribute gifts on December 20th and 21st.
A Flexible Approach to Giving
Martinez encouraged participants not to be discouraged by gift requests that might seem costly.
“Some of the tags have gift ideas that can be a little out of range budget-wise. Please don’t let that deter you from helping a family,” she said. “If you find a tag with a request that’s a bit high-end, get something age-appropriate. These kids and their families will still be incredibly grateful.”
Where to Donate
Gifts can be returned to the following Bank of Colorado locations in Grand Junction:
- 2903 Patterson Rd.
- 200 Grand Ave.
- 2452 Patterson Rd.
The Angel Tree program has become a cornerstone of the Joseph Center’s holiday efforts, providing not just presents but also hope and joy to families in need.
