YMCA of Coastal Georgia Calls on Community to Spread Holiday Joy Through “Giving Tree” Angel Adoption Program

Friday, December 15th, 2023

As Christmas approaches, all branches of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia are reaching out to compassionate hearts in our community, inviting them to join the “Giving Tree” Angel Adoption Program to bring smiles to the faces of local children in need this holiday season. The program provides Christmas gifts for local families who may lack the resources to acquire them.
 
In collaboration with current YMCA members and supporters, along with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and Summit Training Specialists, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia branches successfully brighten the holidays for hundreds of families year after year.  

“The relief experienced by families in need, knowing their children will receive gifts during the holiday season, is immeasurable. This impact is particularly significant for those who are navigating financial challenges, including single parents courageously raising multiple children, or for individuals who have recently faced homelessness,” said Joel Smoker, CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. 

Jazmine Spicer, Habersham Branch Director highlighted the importance of the Giving Tree initiative, stating, “At the YMCA, we're deeply proud of our outreach programs, especially for families in need. This year, we've noticed an earlier influx of requests for the Giving Tree program compared to previous years, indicating a growing need. Putting myself in a parent's shoes, the thought of not being able to get a gift for my child during Christmas is heart-wrenching. This initiative is our chance to bring significant positive change to a child’s life and alleviate some of the holiday stress for families facing challenges.” 

Those looking to make a direct impact by adopting an angel, should visit any branch of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia and choose an Angel Tag from the tree: 

Habersham YMCA 

6400 Habersham St., Savannah 
Islands Family YMCA 
66 Johnny Mercer Blvd., Wilmington Island 
West Chatham YMCA 
165 Isaac G. LaRoche Dr., Pooler 
Richmond Hill YMCA 
154 Thunderbird Drive Suite 101, Richmond Hill 
Tybee Island YMCA 
204 5th St., Tybee Island 
Effingham YMCA 
1224 Patriot Drive, Rincon 
Golden Isles YMCA 
144 Scranton Connector, Brunswick 
Liberty County Armed Services YMCA 
201 Mary Lou Drive, Hinesville 
McIntosh County YMCA 
1111 Magnolia Bluff Way - Suite 295, Darien 
Statesboro Family YMCA 
409 Clairborne Ave., Statesboro 

The YMCA of Coastal Georgia and its partners are dedicated to creating a holiday season filled with hope, warmth, and generosity. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. 

Be a Part of the Giving Tree 

Visit any branch of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia and choose any tag from the tree to participate. Make sure to return your gift by mid-December. Every tag, which can be anything from gift cards to toys and clothing, represents a wish from a local family in need.   

Additionally, you may choose to give a monetary donation toward transformative Y programming. For example, you could provide a child in the community with a year-long membership or a free week of day camp. For those who most need it, your support has the power to make more possible.