Annual Angel Tree display deserves special attention in 2012

WARWICK — There is one popular feature of the annual celebration of Warwick's Home for the Holidays that deserves more attention than usual in a slow economy and period of high unemployment.

The traditional Angel Tree, located between Akin's Drug Store and Newhard's Gift Shop, will be displayed throughout the entire celebration, which began Sunday, Nov. 18.

Each "angel" on the tree identifies a child by age and gender. Pick an angel from the tree, purchase a small gift and drop it off at Track 7 Postal Center, located at 5 First Street.

The donated gifts will then be distributed to local area children and seniors selected by the Warwick Ecumenical Council's Food Pantry.

"This year the need in our community has greatly increased for everyone from young children to our seniors. And the Food Pantry's stock of toys and small gifts is in short supply," said Betsy Mitchell, co-owner of Track 7. "We are asking everyone to reach deep, reflect on their own blessings and stop by our Angel Tree."

The angels will be categorized as male or female and in age groups including infant to preschool, elementary school, middle school, high school and seniors.

The Angel Tree committee will provide suggestions, such as hats, gloves, back packs, scarves, coats, board games, education games, cards, slippers and stationery, for example..

"We're looking for solid gifts that someone who might ordinarily go without would want to receive," said Mitchell.

All donations are to be dropped off at Track 7. The last day for drop off is Friday, Dec. 21.

For additional information call 845-544-1810.