"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee Nation Angel Tree

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation is helping to make the holiday season a little merrier for hundreds of disadvantaged children throughout the tribe’s jurisdictional area by once again sponsoring the Cherokee Nation Angel Tree Project.

“Thanks to the generosity of our employees and our citizens, we have been able to assist thousands of children over the years with the Cherokee Nation Angel Tree Project,” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “This is a program we have been proud to be a part of for over a decade. It’s a program that allows us to live the Cherokee way of ga-du-gi, or working together to help one another in our communities.”

The Angel Tree Project consists of paper angels decorating Christmas trees in the Cherokee Nation complex and in several of the tribe’s casinos. The needs of underprivileged children are written on the angels. Community members are encouraged to select an angel and purchase gifts for the child, then return the gifts to the program office to be delivered to the children in the days preceding Christmas. Children served by the program include children of Native American decent, living in low income families throughout the Cherokee Nation and children who are in tribal custody.

“Last year, the Angel Tree provided for over 1,000 children,” said Brandy Lemley, coordinator. “This year we expect to help just as many if not more. I can’t stress enough how important the support of the community is in order to make this program a success. I am extremely grateful for everyone who participates and helps us to spread a little Christmas cheer.”

According to Lemley, the Angel Tree is a humbling experience for those who take an angel from the tree and creates an indescribable feeling of satisfaction for everyone who takes part. Lemley includes that for those wishing to participate but cannot take an angel due to their own financial restraints can still assist with the project by donating their time to wrap gifts and accompany program workers to purchase gifts with the monetary donations received.

“This year’s event kick-off will be on Tuesday, November 20, at 4 p.m. in the main lobby of the Cherokee Nation Complex,” said Lemley. “I encourage everyone to come out and celebrate the holiday season with a spirit of giving.”

For more information contact Brandy Lemley, phone: 918-453-5000 (ext.7730) or Frances Duvall, phone: 918-431-4115 (ext.238).