Citizens National Bank helped The Salvation Army kick off its 2017 Angel Tree program at CNB’s Downtown Banking Centre on Thursday, with Major Young Soon Kim speaking on behalf of the organization.

Entertainment was provided by Paisley Ivey, a fifth grader from Clarkdale Attendance Center, who sang and was accompanied by her voice instructor, Tim Ivey.

     Kim said the agency started taking applications for the Angel tree program around the first of October, and now have over 800 children on their list who need adopting this year.

Families who apply for help during the holiday season are required to submit proof of income, proof of monthly expenses, photo identification, and birth certificates for their children. 

“We carefully screen all families who apply for assistance each year and make sure that a true need exists.” Kim said.

“During the application process, we hear about a lot of family situations that really tug at our heart,” he added.  “Some of these parents have lost their job, some are unable to work due to illness, and many applicants are single mothers who are really struggling to make ends meet. These children are no different from our own children. They look forward to Christmas morning to find out what will be under their tree, and we believe every child should be given the same chance to enjoy this happiest time of year.”   

     For many years, the bank has partnered with The Salvation Army on a statewide basis to make sure local children in need have a Merry Christmas. 

“Our employees really look forward to the Angel Tree program each year,” said Neil Henry, Citizens National Bank’s Meridian Regional President.  “Many of them join together with their family and co-workers to adopt angels themselves, and we’re also amazed by the generosity of our customers and friends throughout the community who step forward to show their support each year.  Near the middle of December, our bank lobbies start resembling Santa’s workshop as people bring in bikes, Barbie Dolls, and all kinds of toys to help make Christmas bright for these children.” 

The Salvation Army is one of CNB’s statewide partners, and the bank supports other Salvation Army offices across the state by placing angel trees in its various bank offices.  In addition, the bank will be donating radio airtime and billboard messages to help get the word out.

Over 15 years ago, the bank donated its former Tuxedo branch location on B Street to The Salvation Army to be used as the agency’s administrative offices .

     “We make it really convenient for people to help these local children,” Henry said.  “If you’d like to help, all you need to do is stop by your nearest Citizens National Bank location, and take home an angel nametag that includes the child’s wish list of toys and their clothing sizes,” he said.

“While each nametag lists several items on the child’s wish list, you can make a difference by simply buying a few of the items listed.  Once you have finished shopping, all you have to do is bring your unwrapped gifts back to Citizens National Bank by Friday, December 15.  The bank will make sure your gifts are delivered to The Salvation Army, who will distribute the gifts to the families of these local children, just in time for Christmas.

     In addition to the Angel Trees at CNB’s bank offices in Meridian, Quitman, and Philadelphia, The Salvation Army also has an Angel Tree set up in Bonita Lakes Mall near Belk Department Store.

    For more information, call The Salvation Army office at 601-483-6156, or visit the nearest location of Citizens National Bank.