Sunday, Nov. 23, 2008

Soroptimist tree bears new crop of children's needs, wishes

For the 23rd consecutive year, the Community Christmas Tree Project will help needy children in the Modesto area have a happy holiday.

The annual giving tree went up Saturday on the upper level of Vintage Faire Mall. People have until Dec. 19 to buy a gift for a child.

"The program has helped so many children in the area," said JoAnn Found, co-chairman of the project for Soroptimist International, which sponsors the tree along with the mall and Clear Channel radio station Sunny 102.

This year, the Soroptomists hope to provide gifts for 3,500 needy children identified by Modesto City Schools and several community agencies.

The children who will receive the gifts come from poor families, foster care or violent surroundings. Some are homeless, victims of abuse or have parents addicted to drugs or alcohol. Their names are kept confidential.

Hanging on the tree are cards containing the first name, age and clothing sizes for each child. The cards specify something that each child needs -- a coat, socks, school supplies -- and a Christmas wish, such as a doll or a game.

Anyone taking a card will be asked to shop within their means for at least one of the child's needed items.

"We want to encourage people to come and buy what they can," Found said. "We have so many people who consider (the tree) part of their tradition."

She knows of donor families whose children will pick cards for children of the same age and then help the parents shop for gifts.

Once, a girl spent the year collecting loose change around the house. It totaled nearly $100, and the parents matched the amount for a larger donation.

People in all financial circumstances give to the program, Found said. "It's not just people of means. It's really heartening to see how much people will give when they don't have much."

Donors may buy the items anywhere. Some mall merchants give a discount for items bought for the gift tree.

Once the gifts are returned to the Soroptimists, volunteers will wrap the gifts and arrange for them to be delivered.

The Soroptimists will accept gifts purchased without a specific child in mind. Cash donations, which are tax deductible, also are welcomed.

Soroptimist International organizes the volunteers who manage the tree and donations. The group always needs helpers. Found said many high school and junior college students fulfill community service requirements by taking part.

Soroptimist project co-chairwoman Patty Good organizes the volunteers. She can be reached at 575-9623.

For more information about the Christmas Tree Project, call Found at 985-0074.

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