Rapid City, S.D. – The Salvation Army has opened registration for its Angel Tree and Christmas Food Box programs, giving local families a chance to enjoy a blessed holiday season. Sign‑ups are being held in person at the organization’s thrift store in Spearfish and at the main office in Rapid City.
How to register
Spearfish residents can sign up for the Northern Hills area this week at the Salvation Army thrift store, 125 Industrial Drive, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The final day for registration in Spearfish is Oct. 30.
Rapid City sign‑ups run from Nov. 3 through Nov. 13, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. An evening window is available on Wed., Nov. 11 until 6 p.m. for those who cannot attend during regular hours. All registrations must be completed in person.
Program details
The Angel Tree program provides Christmas gifts for children from infancy to age 14. Parents must present a photo ID and proof of the child’s age, such as a birth certificate or Medicaid card. The Christmas Food Box program supplies a holiday meal for individuals and families who need assistance.
Volunteer perspective
“If you are a local person that is struggling to make ends meet during Christmas, you can come in and sign up,” said Angie Mason, event and volunteer coordinator for the Salvation Army. Mason added that seeing smiles on families who otherwise could not purchase gifts is her favorite part of the work.
She explained, “If you’re a three‑year‑old child on Christmas morning and you don’t have a Christmas gift, it’s a pretty big need.” Her words underscore the importance of community members stepping forward to help those in need.
How you can help
Community members can support the effort by picking up an Angel Tree tag, purchasing a gift, and dropping it off at any Angel Tree location or the main office at 405 N. Cherry Ave. Contributions to the Christmas Food Box program are also welcomed.
These programs embody the spirit of Christian charity and the traditional family values that strengthen our neighborhoods. By providing gifts and meals, the Salvation Army helps families focus on the joy of the season rather than the stress of financial hardship.
Why it matters
In a time when many families are feeling the pinch of rising costs, local initiatives like Angel Tree and the Christmas Food Box serve as a lifeline. They ensure that children can experience the wonder of opening a present on Christmas morning and that families can gather around a wholesome meal.
Local churches, businesses, and volunteers are encouraged to spread the word and lend a hand. When the community rallies together, we uphold the biblical principle of caring for our neighbors and reinforce the foundation of strong, faith‑centered families.
Contact information
For more details or to volunteer, visit the Salvation Army’s Rapid City office at 405 N. Cherry Ave. or call the thrift store in Spearfish during regular business hours.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
