Tree of names program has another successful year - kotanow.com, KDUH, Scottsbluff, News, Weather and Sports

More than 300 panhandle children will be getting Christmas gifts this year, thanks to generous donations from people across the valley.

A month ago, the names of 317 kids who may not otherwise get a toy or clothes for Christmas were hung on First State Banks "Tree of Love".

The program ended on Friday, and all but seven names were picked off the tree.

However, organizers aren't worried about those last few children *not* getting something for Christmas.

"We had a few non-returned gifts, which happens," says Marketing Director Becca Tompkins. "But that's part of what we have and use the cash donations for. The people are generous and just do it that way and we get those children the gifts that they asked for."

This is the 31st year of First State Bank's Gift of Love program, which includes the Tree of Names and Truck of Love.

Other stories from 12/9:

Scottsbluff Rural F.D. raises funds while warming souls

Alliance Public Schools confident moving forward

Humane Society warns about dangers of giving pets as gifts

What to buy the man who has everything for Christmas

Nebraskans can learn how to get a green thumb this spring