Christmas may be more than 2 months away, but the salvation army is already preparing for the busiest season of the year.

Last year the Salvation Army helped 1,200 families with toys alone and more than one thousand with food.

This year, they hope to do the same, if not more.

Their popular red emblem can be spotted outside malls and shopping centers with bell ringers, collecting money.

The also popular angel tree will soon be up at the wiregrass commons mall.

"That's where every child that is that needs to be adopted and they are an angel on that tree so we need people to sit there and facilitate people adopting angels." Says Lieutenant Anita Howell of The Salvation Army

Those applying for help need to be aware of some changes.

This year, you must make an appointment at the salvation army office.
That way, long lines can be reduced and clients can receive one-on-one attention.

"Its also a benefit for us because they will receive their letters of when they can come pick up their toys right there and they will not have to wait to receive their mail, so there will be some comfort in knowing when they can pick up their items.” Says Lt. Howell.

Even with a struggling economy, the salvation army hopes to get gifts to every angel on their tree, and feed every family that walks through their door in need of help.

For now, Organizers remain optimistic, and they will be reaching to the public for help.

"It's not just a salvation army effort, this is a community wide effort to help other people in the community, it gives other people opportunities to reach out and do their part in helping our fellow citizens." Says Lieutenant Jonathan Howell.

If you are asking for help, you will have to present proof of income and present a valid Alabama I.D.

Christmas assistance applications will be taken on October 21st ,24th ,28th, and 30th at the salvation army social services office

For information on how you can apply for assistance or how you can volunteer with the salvation army, you can give them a call at 792-1911.