GUELPH – The winter storm that blanketed Guelph, Puslinch and Rockwood in a thick layer of snow last Friday night did not stop 250 volunteers from heading out Saturday morning to collect thousands of Christmas trees.
The Christmas trees will be repurposed, some contributing to a creek revitalization project at Marden Park in Guelph/Eramosa and others chipped and used to restore walking trails in Guelph.
It’s all part of the Trees For Tots annual initiative to raise money for the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington.
For donations of $15 per tree, residents of Puslinch, Rockwood and Guelph could register to have their Christmas tree picked up from in front of their home.
This year Trees for Tots raised over $93,000 and repurposed more than 3,600 trees.
This money will support programs such as:
- Food and Friends, providing nutritious stacks and meals in schools;
- Free to Grow, offering opportunities for kids to explore interests including swimming and arts; and
- Adopt-A-Family, connecting donors with families and independent youth to bring holiday hope and joy.
“Every dollar raised makes a tangible difference in the well-being of kids in our community,” stated Children’s Foundation executive director Karyn Kirkwood in a press release.
Trees For Tots organizers say they are thankful for the support of Axiom Mortgage Solutions Guelph and partners JL’s Tree Service and Hersey Bins.
“Their generosity and expertise, along with many other event partners, made the event successful once again this year,” officials noted in a statement.
People can continue to support the Trees for Tots fundraiser by purchasing a limited edition Trees for Tots candle from thecopperbell.ca.
Candles cost $15, with $5 from each candle donated to the Children’s Foundation.
