Bringing Joy to Over 2,100 Children Through the Angel Tree Program
From December 17 to 19, 2024, The Salvation Army of Winnebago County distributed toys to over 2,100 children through the Angel Tree Program. This annual program ensures that every child, regardless of their family's circumstances, wakes up on Christmas morning with a gift. Donors purchase gifts for the children, which are then given directly to the parents, allowing them to wrap and present the gifts themselves. This approach preserves the dignity and joy of the entire family.
The success of this year's program was not only due to the hard work of The Salvation Army but also a testament to the generosity of local donors, businesses, and volunteers.
In 2024, the demand for the Angel Tree Program grew significantly, reflecting the increasing challenges many families face in Winnebago County. The number of children signed up for the program increased by hundreds in 2024. However, the community's generosity was remarkable. The Salvation Army experienced an outpouring of support, with local families, businesses, and organizations donating thousands of toys, all united in making Christmas a memorable experience for children who might otherwise have gone without presents. The most significant contribution came from the 27th Annual Lou Bachrodt 12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive, which collected an incredible 7,117 toys.
The success of the Angel Tree Program also depended greatly on the many volunteers who assisted with the setup and distribution. Dozens of volunteers dedicated their time during the busy holiday season to help bring joy to many local families.
Volunteers from Project First Rate, Northwestern Illinois Building and Construction Trades, and Connexus Credit Union spent a day unpacking, sorting, and organizing the toys for distribution. Additionally, nearly a dozen other businesses provided volunteers during the three-day event—assisting families in selecting gifts, stocking and arranging toys, and loading toys and food into cars.
Several organizations offered resources and support while families waited to shop for toys. Therapy dogs from 815 Paws brought smiles to many faces. The Salvation Army Pastoral Team and representatives from Gideons were also present to provide spiritual support.
In total, more than 10,000 toys were distributed over the three days, thanks to the efforts of more than 200 dedicated volunteers. Additionally, 827 families received Christmas food baskets, allowing them to create special holiday meals. The combination of toys and meals provided a sense of normalcy and joy for families who might have struggled to make ends meet during the holiday season. The Angel Tree Program allows families to experience the warmth and togetherness that Christmas represents, even in difficult times.
None of this would be possible without the community's support. Because of the generosity of hundreds of donors and volunteers, thousands of children were able to enjoy presents and warm meals on Christmas day.
The Salvation of Winnebago County wishes to thank the following:
- All of the donors, volunteers, and individuals who made this possible!
- 425 Manufacturing
- 815 Paws
- Agnew Law Office
- ASM Global (BMO Center)
- Associated Bank
- Brian Faulk State Farm
- Blaine United Methodist Church
- Burn Boot Camp
- Chapelwood Community Church
- Cherry Valley Fire Department
- City Body
- Chick-fil-A Rockford (Perryville)
- Cleo Communications
- Connexus Credit Union
- Constellation
- Dickerson & Nieman Realtors
- Emerson
- Fed Ex
- Fehr Graham
- Gideons International
- Goodwill of Northern IL
- Headlines Brain Injury Support Group
- Kaney Inc.
- Kenco
- Larson and Darby Group
- Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall
- Lowe's Home Improvement of Rockford
- Maxim Healthcare
- New Leaf Remodeling
- Northern Illinois Food Bank
- Northwestern Building & Construction Trades
- Orangetheory Fitness
- Paccar Parts
- Project First Rate
- Public Health of Winnebago County
- Rockford East Cherry Valley Rotary Club
- Rockford Fire Department
- Rockford Firefighters Local 413
- Rockford Mutual Insurance Company
- Rockford Temple Corps
- Screw City Cross Fit
- Slidematic
- The Pension Specialists, LTD
- The Workforce Connection
- Todd Transit
- Walmart Super Center on W. Riverside