The Okaloosa County School District and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office have announced a partnership for this year’s Angel Tree Program, aimed at supporting students from families in need during the holiday season.

• Superintendent Marcus Chambers and Sheriff Eric Aden revealed the collaboration, which will utilize school guidance counselors and school resource officers (SROs) to identify students requiring assistance.

“The Angel Tree Program has touched the lives of many children,” Chambers said. “I am forever thankful for living in a community that supports our schools and our students.”

In its first year, the district’s program provided gifts for 73 children and their families. Last year, the combined efforts of both organizations resulted in more than 300 Okaloosa students receiving gifts, thanks to staff and community donations.

Sheriff Aden noted the program’s growth since its inception in 2012. “This program has grown with the needs of our community thanks to the heartfelt generosity and commitment of our employees along with many local businesses and citizens,” he said.

This fall, guidance counselors and SROs will work together to identify students in need and create wish lists. Community members can contribute by donating funds or sponsoring a student to purchase gifts from their wish list.

• Those interested in sponsoring a child or making a monetary donation can visit https://ocsostarcharity.com/angel-tree.

For more information about the Angel Tree program, contact Catherine Card at catherine.card@okaloosaschools.com or Katie Tingle at ktingle@sheriff-okaloosa.org.