Local groups helping this holiday season

Each year programs like the Angel Tree and Toys for Tots help more children have a joyous holiday season.

This year will be no different as applications for both programs have opened up locally once again.

Currently, the ASSIST Agency has opened the application for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots. Applications can be picked up at the ASSIST Agency’s Administrative Office, located at 11 N. Parkerson Ave. in Crowley, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Monday, Oct. 14, through Thursday, Nov. 14.

Applicants will need to bring their driver’s license or Louisiana identification card as well as verification of public assistance. The ASSIST Agency also needs the Social Security number of the child(ren) for applicants.

Those unable to make it to the Acadia Parish location can go to The Extra Mile, located at 525 S. Buchanan in Lafayette, on Tuesday, Oct. 15, from 9:30 a.m. until noon. Those going to The Extra Mile location should go to the second floor and follow the arrows. 

The Salvation Army also has opened its application process for the 2013 Christmas Angel Tree. The Angel Tree is for children ages 12 and younger and seniors 60 and older.

In Acadia Parish, applications will be taken at the Rayne branch of the Acadia Parish Library, located at 109 W. Perrodin St. in Rayne, on Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In Lafayette, the Salvation Army Thrift Store, located on Third and Chesnut, will open applications on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, Oct. 25, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Applicants for the Angel Tree are asked to bring their picture identification and Social Security number as well as the Social Security numbers of all people living in your home, proof of income (i.e. wages, food stamps, child support, Supplemental Security Income) and proof of expenses (i.e. bills, rent, utilities, etc.).

For child applicants, please bring the child’s Social Security number, official document with birth date (i.e. birth certificate, shot record) and the child’s Christmas “wish list” and clothing and shoe sizes.