Angel Tree provides joy for KMC families

Story and photo illustration by Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The Angel Tree program started once again as the Ramstein Airman & Family Readiness Center and the First Sergeants Council crowned this year’s tree.

Designed to help families in financial need, the Angel Tree program offers an opportunity for KMC members to donate to families who are undergoing rough times during the holiday season.

Angel Trees have sprouted up around the KMC, providing holiday cheer and financial support to families in need at Ramstein. Last year, the Angel Tree program helped nearly 250 families and 400 children during the holiday season. Donation drop boxes and tree locations  are at the following public areas on Ramstein: Kaiserslautern Military Community Center, Express Shoppette, Ramstein Enlisted Club, Ramstein Officers’ Club, the commissary, north and southside chapels and the post office, as well as the following locations on Vogelweh: the commissary, chapel and the Express Shoppette.
Angel Trees have sprouted up around the KMC, providing holiday cheer and financial support to families in need at Ramstein. Last year, the Angel Tree program helped nearly 250 families and 400 children during the holiday season. Donation drop boxes and tree locations are at the following public areas on Ramstein: Kaiserslautern Military Community Center, Express Shoppette, Ramstein Enlisted Club, Ramstein Officers’ Club, the commissary, north and southside chapels and the post office, as well as the following locations on Vogelweh: the commissary, chapel and the Express Shoppette.

Last year, 244 families received help and nearly 400 children received some extra holiday cheer through the Angel Tree Program.

“We want to actively help the community as much as possible,” said Dana Doan, 86th Force Support Squadron community readiness consultant. “The holiday season can be difficult for many, and with this year’s previous furloughs and cutbacks, we want to ensure we can help put a smile on everyone’s face.”

This year’s program added four more trees that are waiting to spread holiday cheer. The trees can be found at the following locations.

Ramstein:
• Kaiserslautern Military Community Center
• Express Shoppette
• Ramstein Enlisted Club
• Ramstein Officers’ Club
• Commissary
• North and southside chapels
• Post office

Vogelweh:
• Commissary
• Chapel
• Express Shoppette

“We are providing an opportunity for each and every person to improve the lives of everyone around them,” said Senior Master Sgt. Joseph Wheeler, 721st Aerial Port Squadron first sergeant. “This is a time in the year where anyone can ignite the light in someone’s face.”

To help spread some holiday cheer and be that spark in a family’s holiday season, call the A&FRC at 480-5100 or 06371-475100.