Copyright © 2002 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA - The Cherokee Nation is once again preparing for its' annual Angel Tree project. The Angel Tree, a volunteer project of the Cherokee Nation, provides Christmas gifts to Cherokee children living in the Cherokee Nation's 14-county jurisdiction. In 2000, 567 children received Christmas presents through the Cherokee Nation Angle Tree. That number grew to 826 in 2001 and even more applications are expected for 2002.

"Being on the Angle Tree committee for the past three years has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life," said Brandy Lemley, Cherokee Nation Angle Tree co-chair. "It's wonderful to see Cherokee Nation employees and community members give from their hearts."

The Cherokee Nation will hold the Angel Tree kick off on November 14, 2002. The Christmas tree, decorated with angels bearing the names of children needing help, will be placed in the lobby of the Cherokee Nation Complex.

"The Christmas season seems to begin the day the angel tree goes up and lasts until we leave for the Christmas holiday," said Hettie Charbonneau, co-chair of the Cherokee Nation Angel Tree Committee. "The spirit of giving is really alive during that time. It's fun just to be a part of the excitement."

The Cherokee Nation will accept applications for the Angel Tree at the Cherokee Nation Complex from November 1 through November 27. Cherokee Nation staff will also be in the Stilwell, Sallisaw, Jay and Catoosa offices on November 12 and 13 to accept applications.

To be eligible to participate, the child must be 17 years old or younger, have a Certified Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) card, live within the Cherokee Nation boundaries and meet minimum federal income guidelines. The head of the household can make application, in person, for each child at the appropriate Cherokee Nation office. Christmas presents may be picked up December 20.

"It's tremendous to watch the employees and volunteers," said Shannon Chesser, Co-chair. "They bring in gifts by the armloads and sit around great big tables wrapping all those gifts, but the greatest memory I have of Christmas each year, is watching the volunteers walk out, arms overflowing with beautiful packages, to deliver the gifts to the children. Everyone is happy everyone is smiling. We know that we've done a good thing."

For information, contact Hettie Charbonneau, Brandy Lemley or Shannon Chesser, phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2220).