By Josh Bergeron

The Selma Times-Journal

 

The Salvation Army is looking to make Christmas a little better for area children.

The organization is beginning the interview process for its annual Angel Tree program that matches donors with children from underprivileged families to provide gifts for Christmas.

“Selma is one of the poorest areas I have ever known and the need here is so great,” Selma Salvation Army social services manager Libby Welch said. “There are some that their only income is food stamps. They don’t have a job and the kids might not get anything for Christmas.”

Interviews for those families requesting aid will begin Monday and end Nov. 1.

Applicants must bring photo identification, his or her Social Security card, the child’s Social Security card for any children, as well as the children’s birth certificate or Medicaid card. Applicants must also bring proof of bills and income.

Selma residents interested in applying can call 872-1646 to sign up for an appointment.

In Selma, the median household income is $23,457 and 40 percent of people live below the poverty line, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Last year, the Salvation Army provided gifts to approximately 700 children, Welch said.

Welch said a kick-off date for donors to begin adopting children hasn’t been set, but the Angel Tree drive will likely begin in early to mid-November after interviews are complete.