Durham 'Giving Tree' Returning this Holiday Season

For many years, a Christmas “Giving Tree” has been part of the community in Durham. The Giving Tree is located on the first floor in Town Hall in the First Selectman’s office. Our Second Grade Brownie Troops make ornaments to decorate our tree. Located on the tree are tags that symbolize an item of need for a disadvantaged family. The tags contain information on each gift recipient, such as age and needs. Names are not listed or given to donors. Each family or individual is designated by number or letter. Recipients receive a donor gift from a wish list of items.

Residents, service organizations, and businesses that wish to donate a gift may come in and pick a tag of their choice from the Giving Tree. After purchasing a gift, the donor returns the purchased item to the Giving Tree. Gifts are distributed to individuals and families. Monetary donations can be made payable to Durham Interchurch Assistance and be either mailed to Town Hall P.O. Box 428 , Durham, CT 06422 or dropped off at the Town Hall from 9-4:30 Monday through Friday.

This year volunteers will gather at the Durham Activity Center on December 19th to pack basket items at 9AM. Distribution will be from the Durham Activity Center in the afternoon on December 19th. Thank you for sharing the Christmas spirit. Any questions please call Amanda at 860-349-3153. 

— Submitted by Amanda Pedersen, social services coordinator for Durham.