The Salvation Army of Broward County is putting out an urgent call for help to make sure every child on its Angel Tree list wakes up to a present on Christmas morning.
The longtime holiday program, which provides new, unwrapped gifts to children up to age 10 whose families are struggling financially, has seen a significant increase in need this year. Approximately 4,200 children registered for assistance in 2025, an increase of about 22 percent from 2024.
Community support has already been strong, but it’s not quite enough. The Salvation Army of Broward County still needs 1,200 additional donors to ensure that every enrolled child receives a toy.
“We are grateful to everyone who has already signed up to adopt a child, but the need is much greater this year,” said Major Juan Guadalupe, area commander for The Salvation Army of Broward County. “We are asking others to join in the giving so that every child feels the joy and excitement of Christmas morning.”
The Angel Tree program is simple and personal. The Salvation Army partners with local social service agencies to identify families in need. Each child is assigned an “angel” tag, which includes their age and gift wishes. Those tags are then distributed to donors across the county. Donors select a child, shop for new, unwrapped presents tailored to that child, and return the gifts. In the days leading up to Christmas, parents or guardians pick up the items so they can place them under the tree themselves.
Last year, the Broward County Angel Tree program served 3,453 children and distributed nearly 7,000 toys. With this year’s demand rising sharply, The Salvation Army is especially encouraging local companies, churches, and civic groups to get involved by adopting multiple children or hosting Angel Trees in their offices.
Corporate and organizational participation not only helps close the gift gap but also turns holiday giving into a shared effort among employees, congregations, and members.
If your company or organization would like to take part in the Angel Tree giving, contact Maria Tofts, Development Volunteer Coordinator, at 954-524-6991, Ext. 26373, or email [email protected].
Individuals who prefer to shop online can also support the program by purchasing toys through Amazon registries and having them shipped directly to The Salvation Army.
With 1,200 children still waiting to be “adopted,” even one gift can help turn a difficult season into a magical one for a Broward family.
