Union County’s Under the Tree program helps to make Christmas special to children across Union County that are in need. More than 500 children that live right here in Union County benefit from this program each year. Under the Tree is well known and is formerly recognized as Toys for Tots.

Under the Tree works to make sure every child in the county wakes up to a gift on Christmas morning. Can you imagine the happiness and joy that this very small gesture can bring to a family at that special time of year? Help bring that feeling to our local families in need by taking part as a donor or volunteer for the highly reputable Under the Tree program this year. You will surely be blessed.

The program is sponsored through the donations of gracious Union County businesses and individuals. Typically, the same folks and businesses donate yearly during this time of year and new donors, sponsors, and volunteers are always encouraged. Monetary donations are accepted year round. New, unwrapped toys are accepted thru the first week of December.

Volunteers are always a need of the program. The volunteers are used on the day of toy distribution and also a few people with trucks and trailers are needed the day before and the day of to assist in hauling the toys to the school.

It is a blessing to see the happiness and appreciation of the individuals that receive these items during the holiday season. Volunteer Brooke Simpson shares, “My job is directly seeing each and every parent that comes through the line. I’ve had parents cry and want to hug me, all the while telling me what a blessing this is to them, and in return I always cry. It fills my soul with happiness to know that we are making a difference in their lives. Union County has a lot of big hearted people and it really shows on distribution day!”

As far as signing a child up as a recipient of the program, applications are currently being accepted and may be turned in to the child’s teacher or any bank or credit union in Union County, sooner is better. Remember that if you have more than one child, an application must be filled out for each individual child.

Children must be between the ages of 0-12 years old to qualify. Letters of approval or denial will be mailed by November 20, 2019. That approval letter must accompany you on distribution day in order to pick up the child’s bag. You will not be able to pick up the items without the letter.

Toy Distribution Day will be held Saturday, December 14, 2019 at Union County High School from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon at the front entrance. There is not another option for a pickup day or time.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, donating or taking part in this spectacular, blessing spreading program, contact Under the Tree at 865-992-5943.