Angel Tree program brings Christmas joy to Easterseals Port Health clients

NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY) — This Christmas tree holds ornaments, is strung with lights, and white notes with wish lists attached. 

It’s an angel tree and has become a symbol of the season for Easterseals Port Health.  

Each card holds a specific name and the Christmas lists from Easterseals clients and their families. 

Easterseals provides services to individuals with exceptional disability, mental health, and substance use. 

“Not all Angel Trees are open, like ours for different age groups, different income brackets,” said Smith. 

Emily Smith, an individual community supports program supervisor, says that this event is for everyone and anyone. 

“Even if they wouldn’t necessarily qualify for a traditional Angel Tree, Secret Santa, gift program, they can still qualify for ours just by being a part of our program,” said Smith. 

One family who is part of Easterseals couldn’t be more grateful for the angel tree project, especially this time of year. 

“We’ve been blessed, really blessed,” said Luke. 

Hallie Luke, affectionately known as ‘Lala’, has been a part of Easterseals for 6 years. 

Her granddaughter, Hallie, who is almost thirteen has autism, ADHD, and speech apraxia. 

She’s a part of Special Olympics, track and field, surfing, karate, and gymnastics, and has excelled as her time at Easterseals has gone on. 

Luke has legal custody of Hallie, since both of her parents have Asperger’s syndrome, and takes full care of her. 

Hallie and her family receive services from Easterseals, and Luke says that without Easterseals, Hallie wouldn’t be where she is today. 

“She wouldn’t be able to be involved in as much as she is if it wasn’t for Easterseals,” said Luke.