If you have stopped by the Memorial Union recently, you may have noticed that some Christmas decor has already begun to make its way to campus. One new addition to the union is the Holiday Angel Tree. This year, the organization FASTigers is partnering with Team Up for Tots to bring the Angel Tree project to Fort Hays State University’s campus. While this tree definitely adds to the Christmas spirit at Fort Hays, it is actually a service project that provides underprivileged children throughout Ellis County with clothes, toys, and other gifts this holiday season.
Each angel on the tree represents a gift personally requested by an area child. From now until December 10th, students and faculty are encouraged to select an angel from the tree, purchase the indicated item, and return the angel and gift to one of the drop-off locations listed on the back of the angel.
Trey Basa, a junior here at FHSU, shared his thoughts on the Holiday Angel Tree. “I like the Angel Tree project a lot more than other clothing drives I’ve put on or helped out with. Those children who want something specific can ask for just that. It makes it easier for us to help them out versus us taking a stab at it, and buying what we think they may need.”
For people who want to get involved, but are unable to pick up an angel during this time, they should consider making a tax-deductible donation to Teaming Up for Tots, PO Box 542, Hays, KS 67601 by December 10th. Unfortunately every year, angels are taken from the tree and their present requests go unfulfilled. The money donated will go towards making sure those children still receive their presents, as well as pay for gift wrapping supplies.
The Holiday Angel Tree Project is a great way for students and staff at Fort Hays State University to get involved, and really make a difference in the community this holiday season. Christmas can be a pretty stressful time of year for some people, but by purchasing a gift for a child in need, you can help to provide a present to a child who otherwise might not receive any.