Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, July 26, 1990 TAG: 9007260069
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV13 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: KIM SUNDERLAND NEW RIVER VALLEY BUREAU
DATELINE: RADFORD LENGTH: Short
Designed for needy children in Montgomery and Pulaski counties and Radford, the event is based on the national "Angel Tree" program, which gets basic items such as clothes, shoes and books to children.
"We tailored the Angel Tree program to fit our needs," said John Slate, president of React. "We wanted to be able to give the kids presents now instead of at Christmas. It's a sentimental thing."
Beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, about 50 children will have lunch, meet Santa Claus and open gifts at the Radford Fire and Rescue Building on Wadsworth Street.
Names of needy children were supplied by county social service departments. The first names, sex, clothing sizes and ages were printed on cards and hung on trees around the area. Each patron chose a card and then bought something for the child.
"We gave them about 10 names," said Julia Atiles, an employee for the Montgomery County Social Services Department. "There are many needy children and this was a way to help."
The React Club, chartered in 1971, is part of an international citizens-band radio organization with national headquarters in Chicago.
The club's primary purpose is to monitor Channel 9 on CB radios to help travelers. Members also sponsor community events.
For information, contact John Slate at 639-6126.
by CNB