The number of students identified as needing assistance through the Fayette County School System’s Angel Tree program has more than doubled from last year.

The needs of students and their families are reflective of the tough economic times facing everyone these days. A total of 190 students have been referred by their school counselors for inclusion in this year’s program compared to 90 a year ago. Requests range from space heaters, blankets and plastic insulation for windows to underwear, pajamas and lunch money.

“We have one student whose request was for her younger sibling to get items she needs. It just tugs at your heart to hear about the basic need struggles that some of our students face everyday,” says Karen Spangler, the school system’s CARE (Children at Risk in Education) coordinator.

The concept behind the Angel Tree is to help students and their families with some of the hardships that impact their daily lives. While many holiday programs provide children with toys, the main purpose of this one is to meet nontraditional needs that can impact the ability of a child to have a successful educational experience.

“It is hard to concentrate on learning when you are wondering how you are going to scrape together lunch money for the day or how you are going to keep warm when you get home,” explains Spangler.

This year’s Angel Tree is located at the former East Fayette Elementary School on Booker Avenue in Fayetteville. The community is invited to sponsor one or several angels. Individuals, businesses and organizations have adopted 105 of the angels so far. December 15 is the deadline to submit items or monetary donations for the program.

Students and their families are carefully screened before they are approved for the Angel Tree. All adults in the household must be employed but unable to financially meet the needs for which they are requesting assistance. No money is ever given directly to the students or their families; instead monetary donations are used to purchase requested items or services.

“Our community has always been very generous with helping our angels. Holiday Helpers provide a lot of assistance but we also have a number of school system employees and individuals from our community that adopt our angels,” says Spangler.

The school system’s CARE program sponsors the Angel Tree. Anyone needing more information about adopting an angel can contact Spangler, 770-460-1309.

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