Angel cutouts for each child will then go on the Angel Tree, and local folks can visit the store to select one or more angels for whom they intend to provide gifts. Once returned, parents are called to make arrangements to pick up the presents. It's after Christmas is finally over that The Angel Lady gets her reward. She said the store is flooded with thank-you notes and cards. Children come in and give her hugs and verbalize their gratitude as best they can.
Parents describe the joy they see in their children's faces.
North Mason's helper-angels have been most generous. Last year, according to Lefebvre, there were 278 angels on the tree. This year there are approximately 100, but parents have until Friday, Dec. 15, to sign up. She says they are more stringent about addresses this year, and only North Mason kids are eligible. Knowing some of the families quite well, she also said some have improved their living conditions and income, and happily are no longer in need of such help.