27th Annual Tree of Giving Campaign Begins

The City of St. Catharines invites the community to join a cherished holiday tradition as the 27th Annual Tree of Giving campaign kicks off on Nov. 12.

This season, residents can help brighten lives across St. Catharines and Thorold by donating new, unwrapped gifts, gift cards, or monetary contributions to support Community Care St. Catharines and Thorold.

“The generosity shown over the years through the Tree of Giving campaign truly captures the spirit of St. Catharines,” said Andrea Connelly-Miele, Community and Events Coordinator for the City of St. Catharines. “Every donation helps create brighter moments and meaningful support for local families who need it most.”

Community members are encouraged to consider gift suggestions by age group:

• Infants to 2 years: cuddly toys, educational toys, talking books, large blocks
• Ages 3 to 5: toy cars, trucks, children’s flashlights, dolls, books, puzzles, art and craft supplies
• Ages 6 to 8: action figures, art supplies, books, games, cameras, jewelry
• Ages 9 to 12: LEGO sets, books, sports equipment, models, games
• Ages 13 to 16: gift cards ($25 value) for fast food, Landmark Cinemas, Pen Centre, Shoppers Drug Mart; sports supplies and equipment, cosmetics, jewelry, hair accessories, hair tools

Donation bins are set up across several key City locations, including Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre, City Hall, Russell Avenue Community Centre, St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre, Port Weller Community Centre, Dunlop Drive and West St. Catharines Older Adult Centres and the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre. Donations are also welcome at the launch event of Let it Glow: A Celebration of Light on Nov. 23 at Lakeside Park.

For those who prefer a digital option, the City has added QR codes to Tree of Giving posters, donation bins, and campaign materials, allowing residents to make a quick donation to Community Care using a mobile device. A Tip Tap machine is also available at St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre, offering an easy $5 donation option with a simple tap.

For more information on how to get involved, including an online donation portal and printable gift tags, visit stcatharines.ca/Giving. The Tree of Giving campaign will run until Dec. 14.