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Christmas Countdown Local 2022 #12/25 - Tree of Joy



Gifts being delivered to a local school for distribution 

The Tree of Joy is a community project of the Rotary Club of  Wallsend-Maryland  (Newcastle NSW) ... one might even call it an institution. For 49 years, at this time of the year, the community come together with the local Rotary club, and  give generously to others who are experiencing a difficult time.  In the early years, the Tree of Joy focussed on providing gifts to children of families who might not be able to provide Christmas presents.  In more recent times, the Tree of Joy has not only continued that role  but has also  extended help and support to anyone of any age, and especially those whose livelihood has been compromised by natural disasters - flood, drought and fire and the Covid pandemic. 

Rotary Club of Wallsend-Maryland 

Most people like to take a tag from one of the many Christmas trees placed in local businesses and the office of our local member of Parliament. The tags don't have names but they indicate the age and gender, if appropriate, of the recipient . Other donors give items of unperishable food and even pet food. The donations of gifts for adults are the least often donated, and some years, it is necessary for the Rotary club to purchase gifts, but most of the local businesses are also very generous - this is a project where community spirit is well and truly alive and in action. 

The Tree of Joy makes a difference!  Thank you to those who coordinate, collect and deliver and to those who donate... you all make Christmas special for others. 


The Tree of Joy in Wallsend Village 

 

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