Want to help an angel?

Yep, it's that time of year again. I've asked for help from the TSBB folks and they've come through for several years now. I thought I'd ask the readers here for their help...

Our daughter, Stephanie, and son-in-law, Dan, are teachers in an area that would be classified as "disadvantaged." Some of these families cannot afford the basics... the community, the churches, and the school comes together to do an Angel Tree for Christmas gifts for the kids from these families. Steph, Dan, and the staff of the school do all they can, but they can use help in the form of donations. Every dime goes for gifts for the kids - no administration fees, nothing for gas, even the gift wrap is provided. Steph and Dan do a great portion of the ground work and the shopping. With Joan's help digging for deals, they hit the sales... yes, even on Thanksgiving and the dreaded Black Friday. The goal is to get as much as possible for every dollar.

You can adopt an angel from the tree for around $50, or give what you can and Steph will combine it to make sure the kids get taken care of. For the past several years, the TSBB folks have made the difference and every "angel" on the tree has been given a gift beyond what's wrapped.

Here's how you can be an angel that helps these young angels: contact Stephanie at this e-mail address...

sbudzban AT liberty.k12.az.us

Take out the "AT" and the space on either side and replace with: @

Here's the great part: you won't know who the kids are - no names, only age, gender, and clothing sizes. You don't get to see the amazement on their faces when they find out someone cares enough to do this for them. No "atta boy" or pat on the back... you just get to feel good because you did good. Yep, that good ol' Christmas spirit.

Joan and I have volunteered in their classrooms, and we have seen the need. They try to get something fun for each kid, but it's mostly about shoes, jackets, sweaters... stuff these kids need. The local churches do food drives to provide food baskets. The school staff does all they can, but even with everyone taking a couple angles... well, I don't have to tell you that times are tough.

Thank you in advance, friends. Your gracious donations have brought tears to all 4 of us, and big smiles to a lot of kids. Your help is deeply appreciated.

Best wishes,

Jim & Joan (and Stephanie and Dan)