This holiday season some Fayette students will receive gifts that will truly make a difference in their lives.

For the sixth consecutive year, the Fayette County School System’s CARE (Children at Risk in Education) program is sponsoring an angel tree at the LaFayette Educational Center (LEC). What makes this angel tree different is that instead of collecting toys and gifts for needy children, it fulfills nontraditional needs such as hearing aid batteries, after school program scholarships, home repairs, band instruments, extra curricular activity fees and eye glasses, to name a few.

The angel tree program began as a way for employees at the LEC and county office to connect with the needs of students in the schools. Employees have generously helped fulfill angel requests over the years and in the process have helped hundreds of students enjoy a more rewarding and fuller academic experience.

“Participation in activities makes school more meaningful for children. It nourishes their spirit and enables them to use their gifts and creativity. No child should have to forgo these opportunities because of money,” says Karen Spangler, CARE coordinator for the school system and organizer of the angel tree program.

This year’s angel tree has more than 90 angels and is located in the lobby of the LEC, just in front of receptionist Betty Albers’ desk. Betty has worked with the project for two years and describes it as a heartwarming experience.

“There are so many families in our own community that could use just a little support of some type. I have been blessed with my family and I want to share with those in need now,” she says.

Last year Betty sponsored a child who needed eyeglasses, a gift she says potentially changed that child’s education by helping him to read and understand what was being taught in the classroom. This year she chose a student who wants cowboy boots and a clock from racecar driver Kevin Harvick. Betty has already contacted the driver who has agreed to send some items along with an autographed photo.

“There are a lot of great people willing to help and it takes a lot of hands on our CARE team to find resources for families in need,” Betty adds.

Referrals for the tree are identified at the schools by individual CARE teams. They are screened by CARE team members at the county office to make sure they meet certain requirements, one being that the family must be employed but unable to afford to meet the needs requested.

Help from the community has made it possible to fulfill nearly every angel request since the program began. Many donors not only meet the immediate needs but also throw in a few extras like toys, games and bicycles. Anyone wishing to make a donation can call the LEC at 770-460-3990 to inquire about the angel tree program. Donations are requested by December 15 in order to distribute them to the students before the holiday break but they will be accepted after the holidays to help children throughout the year.

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