Salvation Army Delivers Christmas Gifts To Tulsa Seniors

Every year the Salvation Army brings joy to thousands of kids with its Angel Tree program, but they say it's not just kids who need a little Christmas magic.

Emily Perkins has been shopping for Salvation Army Angels her whole life.

"Well I'm 48 years old so I've been doing it for 48 years," she said.

And while she has brought Christmas joy to countless kids over the years, she's especially fond of shopping for senior angels.

"I actually think about my own grandparents or think about my parents and it just helps me connect with the person I'm shopping for," said Perkins.

She says the Christmas wishes of senior angels are usually simple things like blankets or slippers.

"Last year I remember there was a woman that just wanted pots and pans, so that's close to my heart because I love to cook and I love Ree Drummond," Perkins said.

All Angel Tree gifts end up at the Salvation Army Joy Center where they'll get sorted and sent out.

The Salvation Army says thanks to people like Emily, all this year's senior angels have already been adopted.

"Typically each year we serve 5 to 6,000 children, but typically only around 700 to 800 seniors and so those always get snagged up super quick," said Jenny Swyden with Salvation Army.

She says it's important to remember seniors need love during the holidays too.

"I know when we think of Christmas a lot of time we think about blessing kids in need, but there are senior citizens who need our help too and so we're super honored and thankful to serve those individuals as well," she said.

For Emily Perkins, the Angel Tree adoption program truly encompasses the giving spirit of the holidays.

"It’s about putting all of the things that we deal with on a daily basis, put that aside, and just think about other people," she said.

The Salvation Army says it's always looking for volunteers. If you’d like to get involved, visit www.salarmytulsa.org.