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Courtesy of Kathy Henderson
VHELP Angel Tree
The Liberty Park Elementary Angel Tree covered in wish ornaments.
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Courtesy of Kathy Henderson
VHELP Angel Tree
The Liberty Park Elementary Angel Tree after wishes and presents have been brought in.
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Courtesy of Kathy Henderson
VHELP Angel Tree
Co-chair Shannon Banta and team carries presents to King's Home.
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Courtesy of Kathy Henderson
VHELP Angel Tree
PTO members, Kathy Henderson, Lesley King, Shannon Banta and Johanna Cosby and their children deliver to King’s Ranch Admin Asst to Youth Program, Sherry McLaughlin (far right)
Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park partnered with King’s Home foster homes this holiday season.
Through an annual Angel Tree, VHELP has connected VHELP families with King’s Home children from eight of the foster homes for more than 10 years, working to provide the children with holiday gifts.
“VHELP kids can’t wait to see the tree go up every year and pick out their ‘wish’ for another child,” said PTO President Kathy Henderson.
The Angel Tree is put together by the Character and Citizenship PTO team, and it is aimed at teaching students about community, generosity and civic responsibility.
“I want [my children] to realize Christmas is not just about toys … to see these children asking for everyday necessities we take for granted,” said event co-chair Sannon Banta.
The tree holds several “wishes” or present requests from the children at King’s Home, and the wishes range from candy, music and clothing to home goods. VHELP children and parents select a wish from the tree to provide.
This year there were more than 180 “wish” requests, and all but 15 were selected within five days of the tree going up. Presents were delivered to the foster homes in mid-December.
“I chose to be part of this committee a few years ago,” said event co-chair Lesley King. “I think it’s a wonderful outreach for our families who have all been so blessed. It shows you how something so small can impact a child’s life. It’s a great reminder for us, and we hope to instill this love and desire to help our community in our children.”
