Written by Glenna Dibrell
For years I have supported the Angel Tree program but was always a bit flummoxed on what to buy for kids these days. Then an idea occurred to me. I am fortunate to have four grandchildren, ages 6, 8, 10 and 11, who live in the Metro area. They do not attend Hennepin Avenue United Methodist church regularly, but they do come for concerts and special events like the Holiday Festival coming up on 12/7. Why not get their input and advice on what to get for kids that are their age?
For the past four years, we have made this a regular outing. They learn how the church supports families who come to our community from other countries and put themselves in the shoes of kids who might not have any gifts at Christmas. And they learn to buy on a budget. I give them each a dollar limit and then they have to figure out what fits that amount. The creative ideas they have astound me. We all have fun and end with dinner somewhere, and four children on our Angel Tree list have some gifts thoughtfully selected by these ingenious shoppers. Selfishly, watching what the grandkids are drawn to helps me on gift ideas for them as well. And I get more Grandma time with this crazy bunch. Win-win-win!
How to Get Involved
Spread Holiday Joy: Be an Angel for a Refugee Child This Christmas!
Make this holiday season extra special for a refugee child starting a new life in Minnesota. Our congregation has already pledged to sponsor 32 children, but there are still many more waiting for a little holiday cheer. Let’s work together to bring joy and warmth to these young ones, showing them they are welcomed and loved.
How to Participate:
- Choose an Angel: Visit the Angel Tree in the East Entry and select an ornament with a child’s information.
- Sign Up: Use the barcode on the ornament or visit www.signupgenius.com/go/AngelTree2024 to register your Angel.
- Shop Thoughtfully: Refugee Services recommends three gifts per child:
- Something Warm (hats, scarves, gloves, or cozy socks)
- Something Fun (toys, games, soccer balls, or tech accessories)
- Something Educational (books, puzzles, or educational games)
- Please avoid stuffed animals in the shape of pigs or dogs for religious reasons.
- Return Your Gifts: Bring your unwrapped gifts to the church by Sunday, December 8, ensuring each is labeled with the child’s name, age, and family number. Place them in the designated bins.
Questions?
Contact Leslie Wille at [email protected] or 612-804-5764.
Together, we can make this a holiday season to remember—for them and for us!