Time to talk turkey - and angels

  • Published
  • By Sandra Pishner
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  As we enter the last quarter of the year 2009, thoughts start to turn toward the holidays. With the tough economy this year, those thoughts can be as cloudy as a wintry Washington day. 

With the help of Reservists at McChord, the 446th Mission Support Squadron's Airman & Family Readiness Center is preparing to brighten the upcoming holidays for Reserve families with a helping hand. 

A&FRC is now launching its annual Thanksgiving Basket program and the Angel Tree program. 

The Airmen & Family Readiness Center is now accepting food and monetary donations for the Thanksgiving baskets. 

"The Thanksgiving baskets are done for the sole benefit and on behalf of the members and the families of the 446 Airlift Wing," said Carl Supplee, director of the 446th MSS A&FRC. "Any item that you believe would help someone have a great Thanksgiving is welcomed. I would also like to encourage all squadrons to set up food boxes, in order to collect any food donations." 

Donations can be dropped off at the A&FRC in Bldg. 1207. 

The A&FRC is also collecting names and sponsors for the Angel Tree program. 

"Last year the program was successful in helping over 100 families wing wide. Though we certainly hope the need is less, whatever the need our success depends on the generosity of our Reservists," said Master Sgt. Steven Thomas with the A&FRC. 

The Angel Tree program is designed to match sponsors with wing members who may be experiencing some hardships during the holiday season. 

"The goal is primarily to ensure that every person on our tree has a gift to open during the holidays," said Sergeant Thomas. 

Anyone can place themselves in the program, or nominate someone for the Angel Tree. 

Also, anyone can sponsor someone in the program. During the course of the program, and beyond, the identity of both the sponsor and recipient remain anonymous. Those wishing to nominate someone simply need to tell the staff at the A&FRC the person's name and give them a few ideas for a gift. That information is then coded, to conceal identities, and placed on the Angel Tree in the Airman and Family Readiness office. 

Those wishing to sponsor someone will select a tag from the tree. The tag will contain information on gift ideas, age and gender of the recipient. After the gift is purchased, the A&FRC will take care of delivery. 

Call (253) 982-5330 for more information, or stop into the Airman and Family Readiness office.