Easterseals PORT Health hosting Angel Tree gift drive in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Easterseals PORT Health is asking the Wilmington community to help fulfill holiday wishes for people with developmental disabilities through its annual Angel Tree gift drive.

The organization’s Individual & Community Supports team will host the event from Nov. 23 through Dec. 21, collecting gifts and monetary donations for people and families who could use additional support during the holiday season.

“Each year, we seek to spread holiday cheer and fulfill meaningful holiday wishes while also providing essential winter accessories. Our Angel Tree mission is deeply personal. We’re looking to bring joy to individuals and families with developmental disabilities who often face challenges during the holidays,” said Emily Smith, Individual & Community Supports Program Supervisor at Easterseals PORT Health.

According to the organization, case managers identified recipients who could benefit from additional assistance and helped them create personalized holiday wish lists.

Requested items range from winter essentials, such as coats and gloves, to toys, including Barbies, Hot Wheels and stocking stuffers.

“Our case managers thoughtfully identified individuals who could use extra support to ensure we are reaching those who need it most. Once identified, selected recipients excitedly shared their specific wish list of items that range from coats and gloves to Barbies, Hot Wheels and fun stocking stuffers! This is one of our favorite events of the year.”

Community members can participate by purchasing gifts, donating wrapping paper or making monetary contributions.

All unwrapped gifts, wrapping supplies and monetary donations must be delivered by Dec. 21 to Easterseals PORT Health at 1410 Commonwealth Ave., Suite 103A, in Wilmington.

For more information about participating, contact Emily Smith at emily.smith@eastersealsPORT.com or call 910-790-5921.