The International Drive Improvement District is again partnering with the Salvation Army and WKMG-TV for its eighth annual Angel Tree program this 2009 holiday season.

 

Since 1865, the Salvation Army has been supporting those in need with this nationally recognized program that provides new clothing or toys for underprivileged children. The structure of the program makes it easy and convenient for everyone to help a child during the holidays.

 

“With the current economy, there are so many around us who are hurting”, says Luann Brooks, executive director of the International Drive Master Transit & Improvement District. Last year, more than 23 I-Drive industry sponsors participated in this program and we hope to exceed that number this year. This program is an easy way for anyone to help someone in need and we look forward to providing for those less fortunate during the holiday.”

 

Participating accommodations, attractions, restaurants and other businesses in the I-Drive area place a Christmas tree in a secure, high-pedestrian traffic area. The tree is decorated with numbered paper angel tags with the first name, age and gender of a child who will receive a gift of new clothing. Contributors remove one or more tags from the tree and purchase the appropriate clothing for the child or children described on the tags. The sponsoring organization also serves as a secure collection point for the gifts.

 

All “angels” are invited to enjoy breakfast when they drop off their donation. The “Angels on I-Drive” breakfast takes place December 9, 2009, 8-10:30 a.m., at Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant located in Pointe Orlando. If you are unable to drop your donation, pick-up will be arranged.

 

The District began participating in this program in 2002 and each year it continues to grow. This year, the District plans to distribute more than 510 Angels to its partners and to provide clothing for children within the Orange County community. The objective is to provide gifts of only new clothing for as many children as possible whose families registered for holiday assistance or children from child care centers and foster homes.

 

For more information and the location of an Angel Tree near you, please contact Ana Murillo at 407-248-9590 or amurillo@internationaldriveorlando.com.

11/09