Giving Tree Starts November 8

Oct 31, 2023 | Beacon, Justice, News

The season of gratitude and giving is upon us. The exciting news is that we are able to continue our traditional Giving Tree supporting 6 local agencies. These agencies need our help more than ever and families need our support as they struggle to make life “normal” and survive.

Our Giving Tree decorated with tags is coming back to the foyer of our church! The tree will be up starting November 8. Elves will be on site to help you with questions and selection!

Our 6 chosen agencies are: Childhaven, Friends of Youth, Hopelink, The Sophia Way, Sound Mental Health, Youth Care. These agencies support youth, families, seniors, and others in need.

You have the option of shopping at a store or shop in the comfort of your home! There are four ways to give. In either case: Step 1: Visit the Giving Tree in the foyer of the church and select a tag. All tags and “gifts” to be returned by December 10. Tags vary in amount of value but are generally $25-$35.

  1. Select a tag from the tree – purchase the gift, attach the tag, and return to ESUC by December 10, 2023.
  2. Amazon Wish List – Some agencies prefer to use an Amazon Gift list. Look for a tag on the tree indicating that preference. Go to the WishList link for agency you choose to give to, and just as you purchase anything from Amazon, click on your choice and be sure to designate you want it to go to the agency address provided as you go through the ordering process. Because you are sending a gift, you can indicate on the gift message Amazon lets you fill in that you are from East Shore Unitarian Church. Return the tag to the church Giving Tree elves or designated box under the tree noting that you have “sent an Amazon gift.” This will help us track how many gifts are sent.
  3. Gift Cards – If you prefer to purchase a Gift Card – Select a tag from the tree that requests a gift card. Return the tag with Gift Card attached to ESUC. The Giving Tree Ministry will sort and deliver to the appropriate agencies.
  4. Monetary Donations – If you prefer to donate money; you can give to East Shore online here or mail in a check (12700 SE 32nd Street, Bellevue, WA 98005). In both instances, please put “Giving Tree” in the memo line. The money will be distributed evenly between the six agencies. Please note, all donations go to the East Shore Operating Fund to support programs like Giving Tree and more.

Remember – this is a great opportunity for family giving! We thank you in advance for your generosity to these people in need.

The Giving Tree Ministry team is comprised of Janis Pock (chair), Sydney Rivera-Gatins, Paula Doe, Kathie Moritis, Milly Mullarky, Marian Hayes, Janet Fleck, Peggy Phillips. Do you want to join our team? Contact Janis Pock.

by Peggy Phillips