28th Annual Tree of Giving campaign begins Nov. 12

As the 28^th Annual Tree of Giving campaign kicks off today, the City of St. Catharines invites the community to give a little extra joy to those in need this holiday season.

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

“The holiday season is a time for kindness, generosity, and community spirit ─ and together, we can provide meaningful support to local families who need it most,” said Chelsea Brown, Acting Community and Events Coordinator. “The generosity shown by residents for this holiday tradition over nearly three decades is what makes St. Catharines a truly special place to live, work, and volunteer.”

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

• Infants to two years: cuddly toys, educational toys, talking books, large blocks
• Ages three to five: toy cars, trucks, children’s flashlights, dolls, books, puzzles, art and craft supplies
• Ages six to eight: action figures, art supplies, books, games, cameras, jewelry
• Ages nine to 12: LEGO sets, books, sports equipment, models, games
• Ages 13 to 16: gift cards ($25 value) for fast food, Landmark Cinemas, Niagara 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 Saturday, Nov. 29 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.

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. 15.