Tree of Giving campaign under way

It may have a new name, but a long-standing holiday tradition continues for the City of St. Catharines.

A time of giving returns to City facilities this month, as the Tree of Giving campaign – previously known as the Tree of Little Angels –- has kicked off for the 24^th year. While the new name reflects the long-standing spirit of giving by the community, the campaign carries on the tradition of collecting new, unwrapped gifts for a deserving child, in support of Community Care St. Catharines and Thorold. Monetary and gift card donations are also welcome, as Community Care will once again distribute gift cards to families this holiday season.

“The City has a proud tradition of giving back and supporting our community in different ways, and the Tree of Giving is an important one that reflects the giving spirit of this time of year,” said Andrea Connelly-Miele, community and events coordinator for the City of St. Catharines. “Every year City staff and residents respond to the call in an impressive way, making a difference for kids in the community over the holidays. No child should have to go without a gift.”

From Nov. 12 to Dec. 13, bins from Community Care will be set up at City facilities to accept the donation of gifts or gift cards. Once again, anyone wishing to donate a new, unwrapped toy is encouraged to print a gift tag from the City’s website to attach to the gift, as the traditional physical tags that visitors could take from the trees at City facilities will not be offered. Donations should be geared for children up to 16 years old. Suggestions are available on the City’s website.

This year donation bins will be set up at City Hall; Port Weller Community Centre; Russell Avenue Community Centre; Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre; the St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre, S. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre, West St. Catharines Older Adult Centre, Dunlop Drive Older Adult Centre and Port Dalhousie Older Adult Centre.

Those wishing to make monetary donations are also welcome to contribute to the Tree of Giving campaign. For the second year the City is introducing the opportunity to make cash donations, via text message, directly to the Community Cares Christmas program. Those interested need only text “GIVE” to 20222. They will receive a text back providing the option to donate $10 or $25. Residents can also make a secure online donation.

For City facilities where appointment or registration is required, gifts can be left with the facility monitors / greeters stationed at public entrances.

Gift suggestions:

• Infants to 2 years: cuddly toys, educational toys, talking books, large blocks
• 3 to 5 years: toy cars, trucks, children's flashlights, dolls, books, puzzles, educational toys, art and craft supplies, puzzles, models
• 6 to 8 years: cars, trucks, action figures, dolls, art and craft supplies, books, games, puzzles, models, cameras, jewelry
• 9 to 16: books, gift cards, sports supplies and equipment, models, games, cosmetics, jewelry, hair accessories

For more information on Community Care St. Catharines and Thorold, including other ways to donate and support their holiday campaigns, visit www.communitycarestca.ca.