A lot of the ways we used to do things has changed since the Covid outbreak in 2019. We are working towards what used to be our normal as we gather again for parades, events downtown, and sporting events. Despite shut downs and mandates there is one thing that has not changed and it is the communitiy’s drive to get creative when it comes to pulling something together for those in a time of need. Most recently I came across an idea compiled by The Early Chamber of Commerce’s very own Board of Directors, Jennifer Edgar.
As the holidays roll around each year, we get excited to have the opportunity to give back to those in our community who need a little help. When it comes to the holidays many parents are relieved to know that there are organizations out there that help to alleviate the financial burden of the holidays. This is usually done when parents receive gifts from a toy drive or monetary donations from a fundraiser so they can shop for their children’s Christmas presents. However, Jennifer saw a hole where needs weren’t exactly being met in our community. She has seen firsthand how often parents with teenagers between the ages of 13-18 are not eligible to receive any kind of help with gifts during the holidays.
Jennifer saw a need and went to work orchestrating something different, a Teen Christmas Tree dedicated to the teens in and around our own community who otherwise may not be able to have a Christmas without a little extra support.
This specific Christmas tree is located at the Early Chamber of Commerce. You can register your teen with a list of items they would like for Christmas at the Early Chamber. The last day to register your teen and have their wish list turned in is December 8th.
Jennifer’s mission is to make someone’s Christmas special this year, but she needs your help. You can swing by the Early Chamber of Commerce to pick a teen off the tree to “adopt” and shop. Or you can simply swing by the Chamber to make a monetary donation that will be used to shop for the teens. The Christmas season is one of great cheer and it’s so encouraging to watch our community come together in more ways than one to help spread that Christmas cheer. For more information on the Teen Angel Tree please contact the Early Chamber of Commerce at 325-649-9317.
A date for picking up your teen’s gifts is to be determined closer to Christmas.
[Story by Miranda Windham]