Southern Arkansas University and University Housing are once again spreading holiday cheer through the newly renamed Columbia County Holiday Angels project, continuing a long-standing tradition of providing gifts for local children and families in need. Sponsorship opportunities are now open for individuals, groups, and organizations who would like to get involved this holiday season.

The program aims to bring joy to more than 300 children in Columbia County. There are two easy ways to get involved:

Become a sponsor
Sponsors may spend any amount they choose, though $50–$75 per child is suggested. Gifts do not need to be wrapped, but donors are encouraged to include a roll of wrapping paper for parents to use. Sponsors can select a Holiday Angel by visiting https://angels.saumag.edu/available/.

Make a monetary donation
Donate any amount of money, and SAU Housing will do the shopping. Small monetary gifts will be matched with Holiday Angels. Donations may be made at https://web.saumag.edu/angels-donation/.

The Holiday Angels project serves children from infancy through age 13, providing sponsors with information about each child’s age, gender, size, and gift requests. The program not only helps local families but also serves as an engine to the local economy.

All gifts are due by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, in Nelson Hall, Room 115. For more information, call (870) 235-4047.