With almost 200 evacuee children still in Vicksburg, the number of angel cards available through the Salvation Army is higher this year, said Capt. Michelle Robbins of the Vicksburg chapter.

&#8220We looked for about a 10 percent increase because of the devastation of Katrina and a lot of folks have relocated to Vicksburg,” Robbins said, adding the evacuees are expected to stay through the holidays.

For 2004, the Salvation Army had just over 1,000 enrolled in the annual program that anonymously links the Christmas wishes of children and the elderly people with donors who shop for them.

This year, there are about 1,150 cards available for &#8220adoption” at multiple locations, Robbins told the Vicksburg Civitan club Wednesday.

Those willing to shop for a person in need may select angel cards at AmSouth bank locations or Pemberton Square mall. The last day to drop off gifts to the Salvation Army is Dec. 15.

Robbins said in September the organization assisted 373 evacuee families and 274 local families.

&#8220We helped those with immediate needs, clothing, shelter and food,” she said.

Linda Renfroe, president of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, said she has had residents inquire as to whether evacuee children would be included in this year’s angel card program.

&#8220I’ve had numerous inquiries about whether or not our angels included evacuees, so it is on people’s minds that there are evacuees from the Coast in our area and in need of our help,” she said.

Renfroe said she hopes the television coverage during hurricane season helped people realize that need transcends race and social class.

&#8220So much has gone on in these people’s lives that this is a way we can help them get back on their feet and take some pressure off them in the short term,” she said. &#8220For that reason we hope people will dig down deeper in their hearts and in their wallets.”

The Salvation Army also has stockings that can be filled with small items for needy individuals.

Besides the gift drive, Robbins said the Salvation Army is also in need of bell ringer volunteers to oversee the red kettles.

&#8220This year we’re just finding those who have always done it,” Robbins said. &#8220We’re needing new volunteers.”

One thing missing this year is the annual Christmas ornament fund-raiser. No special ornament was made for 2005. However, Robbins said the Salvation Army still has a large supply of ornaments from previous years that can be purchased.

For more information on the Salvation Army programs or volunteering call 601-636-2706.