Some Paoli students live in situations where Christmas holds no guarantee for gifts. The Hoosier Hills PACT Angel Tree program works each year to change that. Since 2014, Jodi Henry and other PACT workers with the help of donors have helped PHS students have a Christmas. This year, 29 families, 78 kids total, have been helped by the Angel Tree. This would not have been possible without the 56 sponsors who stepped up to help.

“Being able to do this each year feels great. It is very rewarding, especially when the presents donated are being picked up and you can see and hear
the appreciation from the parents and guardians. Students also get to see how this program works from start to finish, and it opens their eyes and has made a difference in several of my past students,” said Henry.

In October, Henry began asking for referrals from staff members for any student who may need a little help providing Christmas. She then contacted
each family to see if they were interested in adding their children to the Angel Tree. If they are, she fills out a sheet and a tag with each child’s shirt, pants, coat, and shoe size, along with things they would like to have or need. Then Henry sends out emails to the staff, and makes posts on Facebook,
seeking sponsors. Sponsors can either pick up an Angel at the school or she can send them a picture of the information.

“It takes a lot of work but I am amazed each year by the way the community comes together to make sure all Angels are sponsored,” said Henry.

For more information about the Angel Tree program, contact any PACT staff member.