The holiday season is a time for giving, and one mom’s heartwarming approach to Christmas has captured the attention of TikTok users worldwide. Elizabeth Dempsey, a mother of two, shared a video explaining that her budget for the Angel Tree program significantly surpasses the amount she spends on her own children’s gifts. This act of generosity has sparked a conversation about the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of community support.
Embracing the Spirit of Giving: A Mom’s Christmas Mission
Dempsey’s TikTok video, viewed over 767,000 times, reveals her commitment to prioritizing the needs of others during the holidays. “For me, in my house, Christmas and the holiday season is about taking care of our community,” she shares, adding, “and I think that is the greatest gift I can give my children.” This powerful message resonates with many who believe in instilling the values of compassion and generosity in the next generation. Her decision to allocate a larger portion of her holiday budget to the Angel Tree program, a charitable initiative run by The Salvation Army that provides gifts to underprivileged children and seniors, highlights her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Teaching by Example: Involving Children in the Act of Giving
Beyond the financial contribution, Dempsey involves her children, aged 2 and 3, in the Angel Tree shopping experience. “They did a really good job shopping this year, and they understood they were shopping for other kids and not themselves,” she proudly states in her video. This hands-on approach allows her children to learn about empathy and the joy of giving firsthand. By actively participating in selecting gifts for less fortunate children, they develop a deeper understanding of the importance of helping others and experience the true spirit of the holiday season. Dempsey documented their shopping trip in a separate video, showcasing the children carefully choosing presents for their Angel Tree recipients.
A Balanced Approach to Gifting: Focusing on Needs Over Wants
Dempsey clarifies that her children are not deprived during Christmas. “They have plenty of toys, they have plenty of shoes, they just went on a Disney cruise,” she explains. However, she emphasizes that her family focuses on limiting the number of toys received during the holidays. “They do get a lot of toys throughout the year…and they will have toys at Christmas…but we do keep those toys really limited, to not make Christmas just about getting gifts,” Dempsey explains. Instead, she prioritizes creating meaningful traditions that emphasize togetherness and gratitude. Christmas morning in the Dempsey household includes stockings filled with a mix of practical items, small treats, and a “smaller gift from Santa.” Pajamas on Christmas Eve and a book from grandparents round out the thoughtful and intentional gift-giving.
Inspiring Others to Give Back: The Ripple Effect of Kindness
Dempsey’s message has resonated far beyond her own TikTok following. She encourages her viewers to participate in the Angel Tree program, sharing details about how the program works through The Salvation Army. “You get a list of needs and a list of wants,” she explains, highlighting the personalized approach to gift-giving. The family plans to sponsor five Angels in 2024, further demonstrating their ongoing commitment to the cause. By openly sharing her family’s traditions and encouraging others to participate, Dempsey’s actions exemplify the power of social media to inspire positive change and amplify acts of kindness. Her story serves as a reminder that the holiday season is about more than material possessions; it’s about sharing compassion, spreading joy, and making a difference in the lives of those in need.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Angel Tree Program
What is the Angel Tree program?
The Angel Tree program is a charitable initiative run by The Salvation Army, providing Christmas gifts for underprivileged children and seniors. Participants “adopt” an Angel and fulfill their Christmas wish list.
How can I participate in the Angel Tree program?
Visit The Salvation Army’s website to find an Angel Tree location near you or to donate online. You can choose an Angel tag with a child’s or senior’s wish list and purchase gifts for them.
What kind of gifts are typically requested?
Requests vary, but often include clothing, shoes, toys, books, and other essential items. The Angel tag usually provides specific details about the recipient’s needs and wants.
Is there an age limit for participating children?
The Angel Tree program serves children and seniors in need, so there’s no specific age limit for participating children. Families with children of all ages can participate in choosing and purchasing gifts for their adopted Angel.
Can I donate money instead of buying gifts?
Yes, monetary donations are also welcome. These donations help The Salvation Army purchase gifts for Angels who may not be adopted or to cover other program costs.
When are the gifts due?
Gift collection deadlines vary by location. Check with your local Salvation Army for specific dates. Generally, gifts are due several weeks before Christmas to allow time for distribution.
