ROCK SPRINGS – As the holidays approach, many thoughts turn to those who are less fortunate. One program which has worked hard to make sure no child goes without Christmas is the Tree of Sharing. This year, the Boys and Girls Club of Sweetwater County are leading the way.
For several years, the local Tree of Sharing program has been sponsored by many different groups and organizations. This year, the Boys and Girls Club of Sweetwater County will be making sure no child goes without this holiday season. Director Lisa Stewart expressed her excitement about doing the program this year but said it is important for residents to know that the program is about the children in the community who really need the help during the season.
“We are excited to announce that this year the Boys & Girls Club of Sweetwater County is facilitating the Sweetwater Tree of Sharing,” Stewart exclaimed. “Our goal is to help as many children as possible this holiday season by filling wishes from the tree. If you would like to sponsor a child and/or a family, please contact us as soon as possible for more information.”
As of right now, the club is working with agencies in the community for referrals. Also families can apply by making an appointment as interviews are also being done at the Boys and Girls Club of Sweetwater County. In this case, residents will need to bring proof of residency in Sweetwater County and income. They can make an appointment by calling 382-2639.
There will be several places where the Trees of Sharing will be placed. They include Commerce Bank, White Mountain Mall, both Catholic Churches Our Lady of Sorrows and St. Cyril Methodius, 1st Bank, Trona Valley Bank Green River and Rock springs, both Rock Springs and Green River City Halls,Starbucks in Rock Springs, both Rock Springs National Bank locations, Power and Trust and both First Choice Ford and First Choice GMC locations. Depending on the amount of names received in the next week, the goal is to have names on the trees by Nov. 14.
Recently, the program received a present of its own. First Choice Ford and GMC stepped up and will be sponsoring the tree with funds to cover the overhead of the project. They added a bow to the present as they informed the club this would be an annual sponsorship.
There are three main ways to support the project.
The first way is you or your business may directly sponsor an individual child, a family, or a group of children. You will be matched with the number of children you request, you will then be asked to purchase the items on the child’s wish list, wrap them, and make arrangements to get them to the Boys & Girls Club. We will then in turn be sure that the gifts get to the specific child for which they were purchased by Christmas.
The second way is you or your business can make a cash donation to be used to purchase items as directed by you, the donor. You can specify a certain amount for a specific number of children, or children in a specific city, or you can leave it up to the discretion of the individuals making the purchases with your donation. All attempts will be made to meet any special requests you may have; please be sure to specify on the Sponsor Application.
The final way is you or your business may choose a child and their list from one of the Tree of Sharing trees located throughout Rock Springs and Green River. You would be responsible for fulfilling the list, wrapping, and coordinating delivery to the Boys & Girls Club.
“We are happy with whatever you can do for our children,” Stewart said. “Without your help, this wouldn’t be possible. Thank you for your consideration of sponsorship.”
For more information contact the Boys and girls Club of Sweetwater County or visit the Sweetwater Tree of Sharing Facebook page or website at https://www.sweetwatertreeofsharing.weebly.com/.
