Salvation Army Angel Tree adoptions are open and Major Tonya Roberts said the need is larger than ever. This year, 900 children are listed on the tree from 362 families.

The families, Roberts said, are screened when they submit their information to make sure they fit the criteria.

“Families come in and sign up for Christmas,” she said. “We verify their income and expenses and make sure they are really in need. Then we ask the community to help us provide a Christmas for the children.”

They are then allowed to choose two items for their children, submit two wishes and clothing sizes.

The Salvation Army also imposes limits on gifts, Roberts said.

“We put a limit on it so people aren’t running out and buying X-Boxes or things that an average family couldn’t afford,” she said.

Angel Tree donation centers are at Walgreen’s, Selma Mall, Dave’s Market in Valley Grande, the Selma Library, BankTrust and First Cahawba.

Through the years, Roberts said the response for the Angel Tree has not been what they hoped.

“It has been rough,” she said. “Last year we actually had all the angels taken, but we never got them to return back to us. Last year we had 125 that did not get returned at all.”

The Angel Trees are on display until Dec. 9. When gifts come in they are taken to the old National Guard Armory.

Roberts said people can help without choosing a name from the tree. Donations of money, toys and clothing are also accepted.

Roberts stressed the importance of donations because, she said, “we don’t any child to be without Christmas. These are tough times for everyone, but these children really need your help.”