WELLINGTON COUNTY – The Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington will soon be running its 10th Trees for Tots program in support of local children and youth.
The Christmas tree collection, which takes place in Guelph, Rockwood and Puslinch Township, runs on Jan. 8.
“We’re so proud to support the Trees for Tots initiative within the community,” stated Doug Adlam of Champion Mortgage.
“It’s been going on for a decade, and just to be part of a one-day event that raises a tremendous amount of money for all the children within our community – and doing something that is really fun around the festive season – we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to continue to support this cause.”
Last year Trees for Tots had a record-breaking year, collecting over 4,100 trees and raising over $93,000, noted a Dec. 29 press release,.
The tree collection, which takes place in Guelph, Rockwood and the Township of Puslinch, runs on Jan. 8. Submitted photo
“It was an incredible year,” says Amanda Kavchak, communications and marketing manager at the Children’s Foundation.
“Since travel wasn’t really an option for the holidays last year, more people stayed home and celebrated together – which led to a record number of Christmas trees sold, and a record number of registrations.
“This year may look different with the tree shortages and the ability to travel – but no matter the outcome, the dollars make a difference.”
The foundation has been offering the service since the City of Guelph stopped offering curbside pickup service for trees in the 2012-13 holiday season, and as of the 2020-21 holiday season, there is now a $10 fee to drop trees at the Dunlop St. Waste Centre.
Trees for Tots gives residents the ability to discard their tree easily, all while supporting the local community.
“This event has always been an exciting day for us,” says Joe Legate, owner of JL’s Tree Service and long-time lead partner of the event.
“So many people come together to not only collect trees and return them to nature, but also to support the children and youth of our community,” he added. “We are so proud to be able to offer our services and expertise to help this day run so smoothly.”
Trees for Tots offers residents the ability to discard trees easily while supporting the local community. Submitted photo
All trees collected are returned to nature through different community projects, including creek restoration and walking trails.
Chips and whole trees from the event are donated to the Ignatius Jesuit Centre, Portage Elora, Trout Unlimited and the University of Guelph Arboretum.
Individuals can register their tree as part of Trees for Tots at www.treesfortots.ca until Jan. 3 for a minimum $10 donation. Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $25 or more, less a $5 service fee.
Officials say everyone involved with Trees for Tots will be following all public health protocols.
