Christmas Angels program to support 15 needy area families

The Christmas Angels program in Minneota, now in its seventh year, is continuing to accept donations through the month of December to benefit those less fortunate.
"One of the main contributors this year has been the home teams," said Minneota Public School Elementary Principal Jen Mahan-Deitte. Mahan-Deitte is the coordinator for the valuable program this year.
"Home teams are in grades 7-12 and they meet every Wednesday with an adult leader, choosing endeavors to work toward."
The adult leaders consist of teachers, principal or the school counselor. National Honor Society students wrap the gifts for the children.
"Several of the Home teams decided to support Christmas Angels," Mahan-Deitte said. "Also, Mr. Hanson worked with his art students to support this. Because of their generosity, and those community members who sponsored a specific family, we were able to support 15 families this year."
The Christmas Angels program assists needy families by providing gifts for children. The Hope Lutheran Endowment Fund donated $1,687.50 toward the Christmas Angels program. Individual families sponsor the recipients.
"The families will receive their gifts on a private day to protect their identity," said Mahan-Deitte.
Besides individuals or businesses donating toward the program, all proceeds from the silent auction that was held during North Pole Extravaganza goes to Christmas Angels.
The Christmas Angels program has received such donated items as toys, money and clothing. The money is used by sponsors/volunteers to shop for gifts for the children.
Parents were asked to complete a form that included items that their children wanted and/or needed. The list included toys, makeup, clothes, shoes and more. Each student receives several gifts.
"The fund also supports families who need winter gear of hygiene products well beyond Christmas," Mahan-Deitte said.
Anyone wishing to donate can mail them to the school, or bring them in person, marked as a donation to: Christmas Angels, c/o Tara Skorczewski.