By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – The Salvation Army in Alabaster will open registration for its Christmas Angel Tree program in early October, offering help to parents in need of assistance with providing Christmas gifts to their children.

The Shelby County Salvation Army Angel Tree program is open to children 12 and younger with families who reside in Alabaster, Pelham, Helena, Maylene, Saginaw, Siluria, Calera or Inverness.

Through the Angel Tree program, families in need register for items for their children, and local volunteers “adopt” the children and purchase Christmas gifts for them.

Registrations are done on a walk-in basis, and are first come, first serve. This year’s registration will take place at The Salvation Army, 108 Plaza Circle, Suite E, in Alabaster. The Salvation Army will provide adequate signage and attendants outside to direct parents were to park.

Registration dates are Oct. 6 and Oct. 7 from 9 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Registration will also be held on Oct. 15 from 9 a.m.-noon.

Parents must provide the following documentation in order to apply: Head of household(s) photo ID and Social Security card, birth certificates and Social Security cards for children 12 and under, proof of guardianship, proof of residency (current utility bill), proof of all income (including a reward letter for food stamps, if applicable) and proof of all expenses.

Questions may be directed to Salvation Army Capt. Julia McDowell by calling 624-4155, or by emailing Julia.McDowell@uss.salvationarmy.org.