Angel Tree Requests Up 32 Percent

It may be a sign that Mobile's economy still has a way to go to regain its health.
The number of children belonging to the Angel Tree program is up from this time last year.
The program provides needy children with Christmas gifts through the generosity of others.
The Salvation Army is one of the sponsors of Angel Tree.
Stacey Killingsworth with The Salvation Army said, "We did actually register more first-time families this year than we really anticipated. We registered a little over 2,000 families, which is about 5,000 angels this year. These are children who are going to need gifts through this program, so its about a 32 percent increase over last year."
And early reports are the donors could be fewer.
Sister Jean Salchert with Catholic Social Services, another sponsor of the Angel Tree program, said, "Some of them (donors) are cutting back, and aren't doing it because of finances."
Terrance Anderson came to Bel-Air Mall Monday to adopt angels on behalf of his Masonic Lodge, St. John #2 Lodge.
When asked how it makes his group feel to adopt angels, Anderson said, "Like we have purpose."
And Sister Jean said, "It's a part of giving, and that's what Christmas is all about."
You can adopt an angel at Bel Air Mall near the Dillard's entrance.