OCEAN PINES — For many families, it’s a beloved annual tradition. Each holiday season, Coastal Hospice invites Lower Shore neighbors to be “angels” by including the organization in their year-end giving.

Many residents look forward to receiving the Be an Angel mailing and its inspiring Christmas tree ornament, each one a touching way to honor or remember a loved one. Donations can be made by mail or online at www.coastalhospice.org/be-an-angel. Donors are encouraged to include the name of their “angel,” which will be handwritten on an ornament and displayed throughout the holiday season.

The 2025 Be an Angel campaign continues through Dec. 31. During this time, angel ornaments will adorn Coastal Hospice Christmas trees displayed across the four Lower Eastern Shore counties we serve: Dorchester, Somerset, Worcester, and Wicomico.

“Your support helps Coastal Hospice provide care that goes far beyond what Medicare or insurance can cover,” said Kerrie Bunting, Donor Relations Team Leader. “Every donation ensures our patients and families receive compassionate support through Inpatient Hospice, Pediatric Care, Residential Hospice, Home Hospice, and Grief Support so that no one walks this journey alone.”

While medical care is often covered by insurance, many patients with limited means face needs that aren’t. The Be an Angel Appeal ensures no one is turned away from the care they deserve. In 2024, Coastal Hospice cared for 1,278 patients and their families, providing more than $220,000 in charity care to those in need.

Beginning after Thanksgiving and continuing through the end of the year, WMDT Morning News, a longtime media partner, will share the names of some honored “angels” on-air, a heartfelt tradition eagerly anticipated by donors, families, and friends alike.

This year’s Angel Tree locations include WMDT Morning News; Apple Discount Drugs; Atlantic Hotel, Berlin; Coastal Hospice Thrift Shop; Crisfield American Legion Post #16; Crisfield Elks Lodge #1044; Cypress Roots Brewery, Pocomoke City; Elliott’s Tavern, Snow Hill;  Hurlock Town Hall; Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay; Sisters With a Twist Bakery, Princess Anne; and St. Mary the Virgin Episcopal Church, Pocomoke City.

Coastal Hospice has provided compassionate care for 45 years, focusing on comfort, symptom management, and quality of life for those living with life-limiting illnesses. Founded in 1980 by a small group of Salisbury residents, Coastal Hospice began when modern hospice was still new to the U.S. Coastal Hospice remains committed to supporting patients and families through every stage of care. Services include in-home hospice and palliative care, advance care planning, symptom management, inpatient hospice, veteran and pediatric programs, and grief support.